Development of a balance,safe mobility and falls management programme for people with multiple sclerosis |
| |
Authors: | Hilary Gunn Ruth Endacott Bernhard Haas Jonathan Marsden Jennifer Freeman |
| |
Institution: | 1. School of Health Professions, Plymouth University, Plymouth, UK;2. hilary.gunn100@plymouth.ac.uk;4. School of Nursing and Midwifery, Plymouth University, Plymouth, UK |
| |
Abstract: | AbstractPurpose: To utilise stakeholder input to inform the structure, format and approach of a multiple sclerosis (MS) balance, safe mobility and falls management programme.Materials and methods: Using a three-round nominal group technique, participants individually rated their agreement with 20 trigger statements, followed by a facilitated group discussion and re-rating. Three mixed groups included service users (n?=?15) and providers (n?=?19). Quantitative analysis determined agreement, whilst qualitative responses were analysed thematically.Results: Median scores for each of the 20 trigger statements did not change significantly over sequential rounds, however, deviations around the medians indicated more agreement amongst participants over time.Key recommendations were:Aims and approach: The programme should be tailored to the needs of people with MS. Falls and participation-based outcomes are equally important.Structure and format: The programme should balance expected burden and anticipated benefit, moving away from models requiring weekly attendance and promoting and supporting self-efficacy.Optimising engagement: Support to maintain engagement and intensity of practice over the long term is essential.Sustainability: Adequate funding is necessary. Staff should have MS specific knowledge and experience.Conclusions: Participants collaboratively identified critical components of a MS balance, safe mobility and falls management programme. They also highlighted the importance of a collaborative, user-centred, MS-specific approach.- Implications for Rehabilitation
People with multiple sclerosis need condition-specific interventions focussed on maximising balance and safe mobility and reducing falls. Programme design should support self-efficacy and flexible engagement. Adequate support and funding are seen as essential by both service users and providers.
|
| |
Keywords: | Self-management multiple sclerosis accidental falls balance rehabilitation nominal group technique |
|
|