A cognitive, occupation-based programme for people with multiple scler

Other measures (1)

Background and study aims The aim of this research is to test the feasibility of running a large-scale trial of an occupational therapy intervention called a Cognitive Occupation-Based programme for people with Multiple Sclerosis (COB-MS), as well as its preliminary effectiveness. That is, the aim of the research is to assess whether or not it is possible to properly test this programme and whether or not it is likely to work. The study will focus on how acceptable the intervention is and how well the trial runs. Ten occupational therapists will run the COB-MS with 100 people with MS. This project has the potential to directly influence clinical practice and benefit the lives of people with MS, by enabling them to manage their disease symptoms in a positive way that allows them to live well with MS. Cognitive impairments are common in multiple sclerosis and affect daily life in many ways. We propose a new way in which people living with MS can empower themselves to live active and fulfilling lives - a novel intervention that enables people with MS who are experiencing difficulties with their cognition to live positively. Here we propose an intervention that tackles cognitive difficulties early, allows patients to manage their own symptoms and is transferable to real-world situations. Who can participate? People with MS and occupational therapists who work with people with MS. What does the study involve? Participants will randomly be assigned to receive the COB-MS programme or treatment as usual. The COB-MS programme takes place over nine weeks in eight sessions lasting 60-90 minutes. Participants will be asked to fill in questionnaires before and after the treatment period. At the end of the period, the participants in the control group will be offered the COB-MS treatment. Occupational therapists taking part will be asked to provide their feedback on the treatment programme. Added 23/09/2020: Due to the impact of COVID-19 this trial is now been conducted online: data collection and delivery of the intervention. What are the possible benefits and risks of participating? Potential benefits of participation include: access to a free cognitive occupation-based programme, designed specifically for people living with MS; informational benefits relating to the management of MS; and a greater understanding of the individual’s role in their MS management. When this research project is concluded, all participants will receive a summary of the main findings. Of note, it could take in excess of 6 months before final results are published. Though there is no foreseen risk of participating, there is the potential that a person or persons may become upset when discussing cognitive or other difficulties, in which case, our research staff has the skills necessary to deal with such occurrences. Where is the study run from? National University of Ireland Galway When is the study starting and how long is it expected to run for? October 2019 to July 2022 Who is funding the study? Health Research Board, Ireland Who is the main contact? Dr Sinéad Hynes sinead.hynes@nuigalway.ie