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Nakamura T, He X, Hattori N, Hida E, Hirata M. Dilemma in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and expectations from brain-machine interfaces. Ann Med 2024; 56:2386516. [PMID: 39140323 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2024.2386516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We hypothesized that patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) face a dilemma between motivation to live and difficulty in living, and brain-machine interfaces (BMIs) can reduce this dilemma. This study aimed to investigate the present situation of patients with ALS and their expectations from BMIs. MATERIALS AND METHODS Our survey design consisted of an anonymous mail-in questionnaire comprising questions regarding the use of tracheostomy positive pressure ventilation (TPPV), motivation to live, anxiety about the totally locked-in state (TLS), anxiety about caregiver burden, and expectations regarding the use of BMI. Primary outcomes were scores for motivation to live and anxiety about caregiver burden and the TLS. Outcomes were evaluated using the visual analogue scale. RESULTS Among 460 participants, 286 (62.6%) were already supported by or had decided to use TPPV. The median scores for motivation to live, anxiety about TLS, and anxiety about caregiver burden were 8.0, 9.0, and 7.0, respectively. Overall, 49% of patients intended to use BMI. Among patients who had refused TPPV, 15.9% intended to use BMI and TPPV. Significant factors for the use of BMI were motivation to live (p = .003), anxiety about TLS (p < .001), younger age (p < .001), and advanced disease stage (p < .001). CONCLUSIONS These results clearly revealed a serious dilemma among patients with ALS between motivation to live and their anxiety about TLS and caregiver burden. Patients expected BMI to reduce this dilemma. Thus, the development of better BMIs may meet these expectations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takuma Nakamura
- Department of Neurological Diagnosis and Restoration, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan
- Department of Neurology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kamigyo, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Xin He
- Department of Neurological Diagnosis and Restoration, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka University Medical School, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Noriaki Hattori
- Global Center for Medical Engineering and Informatics, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Eisuke Hida
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masayuki Hirata
- Department of Neurological Diagnosis and Restoration, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka University Medical School, Suita, Osaka, Japan
- Global Center for Medical Engineering and Informatics, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
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Alonso JP, Ini N, Villarejo A, Belizán M, Roberti J. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in Argentina: unveiling the burden of treatment through patient and caregiver perspectives. Disabil Rehabil 2024:1-8. [PMID: 39072497 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2024.2385732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 07/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine the burden of treatment (BoT) experienced by people with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in Argentina. METHODS Qualitative methodological design based on semi-structured interviews. Nineteen semi-structured interviews were conducted (PwALS = 7, informal caregivers= 12). The interview guides were designed based on the literature and BoT theory. Data were analysed following a framework analysis approach. RESULTS The research highlighted the arduous journey toward obtaining a diagnosis, marked by delays influenced by healthcare system inefficiencies, lack of disease awareness and pandemic-related anxiety. Receiving the diagnosis was a destabilising experience, triggering the need to reframe self-identity, a new reality. As the disease progressed, patients encountered significant challenges in their daily activities and basic tasks, affecting their ability to work, communicate, and manage personal care. The burden extended beyond the patients to their primary caregivers. Access to specialised care, bureaucratic complexities in securing treatment, and the financial impact of managing the disease posed substantial challenges. CONCLUSION The findings offer valuable insights into the experiences of PwALS and their caregivers in Argentina. They underscore the need for increased disease awareness, improved access to specialised care, and enhanced support networks to alleviate the burdens PwALS and their families face.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Pedro Alonso
- Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy (IECS), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Gino Germani Institute, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Natalí Ini
- Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy (IECS), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- CIESP - CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Agustina Villarejo
- Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy (IECS), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Belizán
- Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy (IECS), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Javier Roberti
- Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy (IECS), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- CIESP - CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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3
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Yu Y, Zeng L, Wu M, Li C, Qiu Y, Liu J, Yang F, Xia P. Exploring amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients' experiences of psychological distress during the disease course in China: a qualitative study. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e082398. [PMID: 38851229 PMCID: PMC11163685 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-082398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to explore the psychological distress course of Chinese amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients after the onset of the disease and to provide targeted nursing guidance. DESIGN The interview content was analysed qualitatively. We used seven steps of Colaizzi's method to analyse the participants' data. SETTING Wuhan, China, Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital. PARTICIPANTS A semistructured face-to-face interview were performed among 22 people with ALS from the motor neuron disease rehabilitation centre of a tertiary Chinese medicine hospital in China. RESULT This study included a total of 22 participants, from whom three main themes regarding the psychological distress trajectory of ALS patients were extracted from the interview data: 'Time begins to run out' include tormented and restless waiting and shock and doubt in ALS disease confirmation, 'Family out of control' include the burden of stigma and function loss, the burden of missing family roles, the burden of marriage's emotional needs and the burden of offspring health, 'Way forward' include struggle between live and death and struggle between quality of life and the value of life. CONCLUSION This study outlines the psychologically distressing journey of ALS patients. Studies have pointed out the need for targeted care to address patients' various sources of psychological distress to improve their quality of life and coping ability, increase their psychological resilience and reconstruct their life beliefs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqing Yu
- School of Nursing, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Lijuan Zeng
- School of Nursing, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Man Wu
- School of Nursing, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Chaoyang Li
- School of Nursing, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Yufei Qiu
- School of Nursing, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiali Liu
- School of Nursing, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Fen Yang
- School of Nursing, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Shizhen Laboratory, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Peng Xia
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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4
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Chiang HLM. "It'll never end, I'll never go": Representation of Caregiving in Samuel Beckett's Endgame and Footfalls. THE JOURNAL OF MEDICAL HUMANITIES 2024; 45:79-93. [PMID: 37341852 DOI: 10.1007/s10912-023-09805-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
Research on the unrepresentability of death in Samuel Beckett's oeuvre abound in Beckett scholarship, but little attention has been given to the artist's representation of caregiving to the dying in his plays. With reference to Martin Heidegger's concept of care and Albert Camus's idea of the absurd, this article analyzes Endgame (1957) and Footfalls (1976) by attending to Beckett's dramatic representation of caregiving as undergirded by a sense of its absurdity. The almost 20-year gap between the writing of both plays highlights the development of an understanding that this sense of absurdity is never about the caregiver's questioning of one's obligation to the dependent but about how one chooses to respond to caregiving as an absurd predicament. The pertinence of such a representation of caregiving by Beckett lies in its poignant articulation of a complex experience that is often left unexpressed by caregivers who prioritize their dependent loved ones over themselves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Ling Michelle Chiang
- School of Humanities, Nanyang Technological University, 48 Nanyang Avenue, SHHK-03-69, Singapore, 639818, Singapore.
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Rush CL, Lester EG, Berry JD, Brizzi KT, Lindenberger EC, Curtis JR, Vranceanu AM. A roadmap for early psychosocial support in palliative care for people impacted by ALS-reducing suffering, building resiliency, and setting the stage for delivering timely transdiagnostic psychosocial care. Transl Behav Med 2023; 13:722-726. [PMID: 37043596 DOI: 10.1093/tbm/ibad024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
This commentary describes the current state of psychosocial care for people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and their caregivers. We provide recommendations for developing a roadmap for future research based on existing literature and our group's clinical and research experience to inform next steps to expand evidence-based psychosocial care for people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and their caregivers, with potential implications for a range of advanced illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina L Rush
- Center for Health Outcomes and Interdisciplinary Research (CHOIR), Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH)/Harvard Medical School (HMS), Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ethan G Lester
- Center for Health Outcomes and Interdisciplinary Research (CHOIR), Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH)/Harvard Medical School (HMS), Boston, MA, USA
| | - James D Berry
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH)/Harvard Medical School (HMS), Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kate T Brizzi
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH)/Harvard Medical School (HMS), Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elizabeth C Lindenberger
- Division of Palliative Care & Geriatric Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH)/Harvard Medical School (HMS), Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jared Randall Curtis
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine and Cambia Palliative Care Center of Excellence, Harborview Medical Center, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ana-Maria Vranceanu
- Center for Health Outcomes and Interdisciplinary Research (CHOIR), Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH)/Harvard Medical School (HMS), Boston, MA, USA
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6
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van Eenennaam RM, Rave N, Kruithof WJ, Kruitwagen-van Reenen ET, van den Berg LH, Visser-Meily JA, Beelen A. Control in the absence of choice: A qualitative study on decision-making about gastrostomy in people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0290508. [PMID: 37682899 PMCID: PMC10490981 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastrostomy is recommended in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis for long-term nutritional support, however, people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and healthcare professionals perceive decision-making as complex. METHOD To explore their perspectives on decision-making regarding gastrostomy, we used semi-structured interviews with people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, who had made a decision, and their caregivers; healthcare professionals were interviewed separately. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed thematically. RESULTS In 14 cases, 13 people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and 12 caregivers were interviewed; and in 10 of these cases, 5 healthcare professionals. Participants described decision-making on gastrostomy as a continuous process of weighing (future) clinical need against their values and beliefs in coming to a decision to accept or reject gastrostomy, or to postpone decision-making, while being supported by loved ones and healthcare professionals. Participants described gastrostomy as inevitable, but retained agency through control over the timing of decision-making. They said physical necessity, experiences of loss and identity, and expectations about gastrostomy placement were important factors in decision-making. Decision-making was described as a family affair, with caregivers supporting patient choice. healthcare professionals supported people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis during the decision-making process and respected their autonomy and values. People with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis stressed the importance of adequate information on the procedure and the benefits. CONCLUSION People with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis feel in control of decision-making on gastrostomy if they are able to make their own choice at their own pace, supported by loved ones and healthcare professionals. Person-centered decision-making on gastrostomy requires early information exchange and repeated discussions with people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and their caregivers, incorporating their values and respecting patient choice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Remko M. van Eenennaam
- Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sports, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Center of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Neele Rave
- Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sports, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Center of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Willeke J. Kruithof
- Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sports, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Center of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Esther T. Kruitwagen-van Reenen
- Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sports, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Center of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Leonard H. van den Berg
- Department of Neurology, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Johanna A. Visser-Meily
- Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sports, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Center of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Anita Beelen
- Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sports, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Center of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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7
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Kluger BM, Hudson P, Hanson LC, Bužgovà R, Creutzfeldt CJ, Gursahani R, Sumrall M, White C, Oliver DJ, Pantilat SZ, Miyasaki J. Palliative care to support the needs of adults with neurological disease. Lancet Neurol 2023; 22:619-631. [PMID: 37353280 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(23)00129-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
Neurological diseases cause physical, psychosocial, and spiritual or existential suffering from the time of their diagnosis. Palliative care focuses on improving quality of life for people with serious illness and their families by addressing this multidimensional suffering. Evidence from clinical trials supports the ability of palliative care to improve patient and caregiver outcomes by the use of outpatient or home-based palliative care interventions for people with motor neuron disease, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson's disease; inpatient palliative care consultations for people with advanced dementia; telephone-based case management for people with dementia in the community; and nurse-led discussions with decision aids for people with advanced dementia in long-term care. Unfortunately, most people with neurological diseases do not get the support that they need for their palliative care under current standards of healthcare. Improving this situation requires the deployment of routine screening to identify individual palliative care needs, the integration of palliative care approaches into routine neurological care, and collaboration between neurologists and palliative care specialists. Research, education, and advocacy are also needed to raise standards of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benzi M Kluger
- University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Peter Hudson
- The University of Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia; St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia; Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
| | - Laura C Hanson
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Radka Bužgovà
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | | | - Roop Gursahani
- Hinduja Hospital & Medical Research Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Malenna Sumrall
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Charles White
- University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | | | - Steven Z Pantilat
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Saji A, Oishi A, Harding R. Self-perceived Burden for People With Life-threatening Illness: A Qualitative Systematic Review. J Pain Symptom Manage 2023; 65:e207-e217. [PMID: 36368570 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2022.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The perception of being a burden to others is a significant concern for people with life-threatening illness. It is unclear what underpins the concept of "self-perceived burden". OBJECTIVES To appraise and integrate primary evidence underpinning the concept of self-perceived burden (SPB) with respect to their informal caregivers among adult patients with life-threatening illness. METHODS This is a systematic review and a thematic synthesis of qualitative primary data. MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Web of Science were searched in September 2021, supplemented by hand searching of textbooks and web search engines, peer-review journals, and contact with experts. Qualitative studies were included if they provided primary data of adult patients' (with life-limiting illness) SPB toward their informal caregivers. Studies were appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist. RESULTS Nine studies were included, reporting on 219 patients who mostly had advanced life-threatening illness and needed physical assistance for daily activities. SPB is a highly subjective perception contrasting self and/or informal caregivers in the past, present, and future. Patients develop SPB feeling uncertain about caregivers' perceptions and increasing future burden. SPB interacts with other factors of surrounding complex balances (such as care needs, reality, and identity) which would change over time, and patients' reactions to SPB at the sacrifice of their wishes may conversely increase the total suffering. CONCLUSION SPB is not a static perception but a fluctuating and complex 'process' based on uncertainty. More diverse understandings and following interventions to achieve a better balance of care should be sought.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asako Saji
- Yokohama-shi Kotobuki-cho Kenko Fukushi Koryu Center Clinic (A.S.), Kanagawa, Japan.
| | - Ai Oishi
- Kamakura Family Clinic (A.O.), Kanagawa, Japan; Department of Health Data Science (A.O.), Yokohama City University, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Richard Harding
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care, Cicely Saunders Institute (R.H.), King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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The Complexities of Prescribing Assistive Equipment at the End of Life—Patient and Caregivers’ Perspectives. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10061005. [PMID: 35742056 PMCID: PMC9222988 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10061005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Ongoing participation in valued and essential everyday activities remains a priority for people with advanced disease. This study sought to understand factors influencing patients with advanced disease and caregivers’ utilisation of assistive equipment that enable this participation. Employing a pragmatic approach, purposive sampling identified participants who were interviewed in their homes. A semi-structured interview guide was employed to elicit community dwelling patients’ and caregivers’ perspectives about assistive equipment utilisation. Recorded interviews were analysed inductively and themes were constructed from the data. Fourteen interviews were conducted with patients and caregivers. Patients had a range of cancers and COPD. Three empirically developed themes demonstrate the complexities associated with the use of assistive equipment at the end of life: 1. Enabling engagement in everyday activities; 2. Dependency—a two-way street; 3. The pragmatics of choosing, using or declining assistive equipment. Participants were motivated to use assistive equipment when it optimised their function, enabled participation and supported their values, roles and interests. Conversely, use of assistive equipment could be met with ambivalence as it represented deterioration or could cause conflict within relationships. Caregivers found assistive equipment made it easier for them to provide physical care. Skilled proactive assistive equipment prescription and training by allied health professionals enhanced patient and caregiver confidence and capacity to engage in everyday activities.
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10
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Sommers-Spijkerman M, Rave N, Kruitwagen-van Reenen E, Visser-Meily JMA, Kavanaugh MS, Beelen A. Parental and child adjustment to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: transformations, struggles and needs. BMC Psychol 2022; 10:72. [PMID: 35300726 PMCID: PMC8929294 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-022-00780-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), progressive muscular atrophy (PMA) and primary lateral sclerosis (PLS), together referred to as ALS, are life-limiting diagnoses affecting not only patients but also the families surrounding them, especially when dependent children are involved. Despite previous research highlighting the vulnerability of children in these families, they are, as yet, often overlooked in healthcare. Efforts are needed to better support children in families living with ALS, both directly and through strengthening parents in their parental role. This study sought to gain a better understanding of parental and children’s experiences, struggles and support needs in families living with ALS. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 8 parents with ALS, 13 well parents and 15 children, together representing 17 families. Interview data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Results Three major themes were identified relating to (1) ALS-related transformations in families’ homes, activities, roles and relationships, that trigger (2) distress among families, which, in turn, evokes (3) emotional, psychological, educational and practical support needs. For emotional and practical support, parents and children mainly rely on their own family and social network, whereas they seek educational and psychological support from healthcare professionals. Conclusions Our findings imply that ALS care professionals may foster family adjustment to living with ALS, most notably through encouraging parents to engage in a dialogue with their children about the many transformations, struggles and needs imposed by ALS and teaching them how to start the dialogue. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40359-022-00780-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Sommers-Spijkerman
- Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sports, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands. .,Center of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Neele Rave
- Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sports, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Center of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Esther Kruitwagen-van Reenen
- Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sports, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Center of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Johanna M A Visser-Meily
- Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sports, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Center of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Melinda S Kavanaugh
- Helen Bader School of Social Welfare, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Anita Beelen
- Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sports, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Center of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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11
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Clarke C, Cannon M, Skokauskas N, Twomey P. The debate about physician assisted suicide and euthanasia in Ireland - Implications for psychiatry. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LAW AND PSYCHIATRY 2021; 79:101747. [PMID: 34689096 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijlp.2021.101747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
At present, Physician-Assisted Suicide and Euthanasia are illegal in Ireland, and are forbidden under the Irish Medical Council's ethical guidelines. With the recent introduction of a Bill in the Irish Dáil (Parliament) which would have permitted Physicial-Assisted Suicide in that country, Physician-Assisted Suicide and Euthanasia (PAS-E) has become the subject of debate, both within the medical profession and in the wider community. Geographical and historical considerations mean that the Irish situation may have relevance to many other countries, which have apparently little similarity among themselves. PAS-E is becoming more widespread and more acceptable in many countries throughout the world. There are ramifications for many aspects of medical care, and matters such as the broadening of euthanasia criteria beyond terminal illness, attitudes toward suicide, and the determination of capacity and voluntariness, suggest that it will be an important issue, not only for psychiatrists, but for the wider medical community as well, in the coming years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciaran Clarke
- University College Dublin Health Sciences Centre, Dublin D04 C7X2, Ireland.
| | - Mary Cannon
- Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dept of Psychiatry, Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin D09 V2N0, Ireland.
| | - Norbertas Skokauskas
- NTNU Regional Centre for Child and Youth Mental Health and Child Welfare, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Pauline Twomey
- Health Service Executive, Phoenix Care Centre, Grangegorman Campus, North Circular Road, Dublin 7 D07 VPT0, Ireland.
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12
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Bassola B, Cilluffo S, Lusignani M. Going inside the relationship between caregiver and care-receiver with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis in Italy, a Grounded Theory study. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2021; 29:1083-1090. [PMID: 32876339 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
People with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis become dependent on caregivers for daily activities and to perform self-care activities at home. The family caregiver has an important role in the care. The patient decides and controls care but depends on the caregiver to implement self-care behaviours. The quality of caregiver-patient relationships could influence clinical outcomes, as it occurs in other illnesses, so the aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis patients and their family caregiver and how it impacts care, and patient and caregiver outcomes. We interviewed 22 patients/caregivers in a Neuromuscular Clinical Center in the South of Europe, between July and October 2018. A Grounded Theory approach was used, comprising line by line 'initial coding', memos writing, 'focused coding', advanced memos and categories definition. From the interviews three main categories emerged: 'reciprocity', 'loving to care' and 'changing to care' and four secondary categories: 'having support', 'sharing suffering', 'protecting each other' and 'thinking positive'. A stable and calm relationship between patient and caregiver, characterised by reciprocity, mutual help and affection affected patient self-care provided at home and the caregiver burden. The concept of mutuality seems to describe this relationship, despite the patient's dependence on the caregiver. The relationship with health professionals and educational interventions could influence the quality of the relationship. Further studies are needed to describe the quality of the relationship in this dyad, to investigate the presence of mutuality and how it affects patient and caregiver outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Bassola
- School of Nursing, University of Milan, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Cilluffo
- Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | - Maura Lusignani
- School of Nursing, University of Milan, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy
- Biomedical Science for Health Department, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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13
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Morgan DD, Marston C, Barnard E, Farrow C. Conserving dignity and facilitating adaptation to dependency with intimate hygiene for people with advanced disease: A qualitative study. Palliat Med 2021; 35:1366-1377. [PMID: 34044651 DOI: 10.1177/02692163211017388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People at the end of life experience increased dependence with self-care as disease progresses, including care with intimate hygiene. Dependence with intimate hygiene has been identified as a factor that may compromise dignity at the end of life. However, adaption to increased dependency and subsequent impact on dignity with intimate hygiene is an under-researched area. AIM This study sought to understand how people at the end of life experience dignity with intimate hygiene when function declines and how people adapt to increased dependence with intimate hygiene needs. DESIGN A qualitative design was employed using a hermeneutic phenomenological perspective which privileges participant perspectives. Findings were mapped against occupational therapy and dignity literature. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS Participants were people with advanced disease receiving inpatient or community palliative care. RESULTS Eighteen interviews were conducted with people about their experiences and perspectives of dignity with intimate hygiene. The following themes were constructed from the data: (1) There's a way of doing and a way of asking, (2) Putting each other at ease, (3) It's just how it is, (4) Regaining and retaining control. How people adjust to dependence with intimate hygiene is individually mediated. Patterns of occupational adaptation to increased dependence with intimate hygiene and practical implications for care are discussed. CONCLUSION Adaptation to increased dependence with intimate hygiene is facilitated by enabling moments of micro-competence and agency over how care is received. Carers play a pivotal role in compromising or conserving the dignity with intimate hygiene at the end of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deidre D Morgan
- Palliative and Supportive Services, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Research Centre for Palliative Care, Death and Dying (RePaDD), Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Celia Marston
- Clinical Lead, Occupational Therapy, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Research Lead, Occupational Therapy, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Barnard
- Department for Health and Wellbeing: SA Health, Northern Adelaide Local Health Network (NALHN), Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Caroline Farrow
- Department for Health and Wellbeing: SA Health, Northern Adelaide Palliative Service (NAPS), Northern Adelaide Local Health Network (NALHN), Adelaide, SA, Australia
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14
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Shoesmith C, Abrahao A, Benstead T, Chum M, Dupre N, Izenberg A, Johnston W, Kalra S, Leddin D, O'Connell C, Schellenberg K, Tandon A, Zinman L. Canadian best practice recommendations for the management of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. CMAJ 2021; 192:E1453-E1468. [PMID: 33199452 DOI: 10.1503/cmaj.191721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Christen Shoesmith
- London Health Sciences Centre (Shoesmith), London, Ont.; Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre (Abrahao, Izenberg, Tandon, Zinman), Toronto, Ont.; Dalhousie University (Benstead, Leddin), Halifax, NS; McMaster University (Chum), Hamilton, Ont.; CHU de Québec-Université Laval (Dupre), Québec, Que.; University of Alberta (Johnston, Kalra), Edmonton, Alta.; Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation (O'Connell), Fredericton, NB; University of Saskatchewan (Schellenberg), Saskatoon, Sask.
| | - Agessandro Abrahao
- London Health Sciences Centre (Shoesmith), London, Ont.; Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre (Abrahao, Izenberg, Tandon, Zinman), Toronto, Ont.; Dalhousie University (Benstead, Leddin), Halifax, NS; McMaster University (Chum), Hamilton, Ont.; CHU de Québec-Université Laval (Dupre), Québec, Que.; University of Alberta (Johnston, Kalra), Edmonton, Alta.; Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation (O'Connell), Fredericton, NB; University of Saskatchewan (Schellenberg), Saskatoon, Sask
| | - Tim Benstead
- London Health Sciences Centre (Shoesmith), London, Ont.; Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre (Abrahao, Izenberg, Tandon, Zinman), Toronto, Ont.; Dalhousie University (Benstead, Leddin), Halifax, NS; McMaster University (Chum), Hamilton, Ont.; CHU de Québec-Université Laval (Dupre), Québec, Que.; University of Alberta (Johnston, Kalra), Edmonton, Alta.; Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation (O'Connell), Fredericton, NB; University of Saskatchewan (Schellenberg), Saskatoon, Sask
| | - Marvin Chum
- London Health Sciences Centre (Shoesmith), London, Ont.; Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre (Abrahao, Izenberg, Tandon, Zinman), Toronto, Ont.; Dalhousie University (Benstead, Leddin), Halifax, NS; McMaster University (Chum), Hamilton, Ont.; CHU de Québec-Université Laval (Dupre), Québec, Que.; University of Alberta (Johnston, Kalra), Edmonton, Alta.; Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation (O'Connell), Fredericton, NB; University of Saskatchewan (Schellenberg), Saskatoon, Sask
| | - Nicolas Dupre
- London Health Sciences Centre (Shoesmith), London, Ont.; Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre (Abrahao, Izenberg, Tandon, Zinman), Toronto, Ont.; Dalhousie University (Benstead, Leddin), Halifax, NS; McMaster University (Chum), Hamilton, Ont.; CHU de Québec-Université Laval (Dupre), Québec, Que.; University of Alberta (Johnston, Kalra), Edmonton, Alta.; Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation (O'Connell), Fredericton, NB; University of Saskatchewan (Schellenberg), Saskatoon, Sask
| | - Aaron Izenberg
- London Health Sciences Centre (Shoesmith), London, Ont.; Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre (Abrahao, Izenberg, Tandon, Zinman), Toronto, Ont.; Dalhousie University (Benstead, Leddin), Halifax, NS; McMaster University (Chum), Hamilton, Ont.; CHU de Québec-Université Laval (Dupre), Québec, Que.; University of Alberta (Johnston, Kalra), Edmonton, Alta.; Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation (O'Connell), Fredericton, NB; University of Saskatchewan (Schellenberg), Saskatoon, Sask
| | - Wendy Johnston
- London Health Sciences Centre (Shoesmith), London, Ont.; Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre (Abrahao, Izenberg, Tandon, Zinman), Toronto, Ont.; Dalhousie University (Benstead, Leddin), Halifax, NS; McMaster University (Chum), Hamilton, Ont.; CHU de Québec-Université Laval (Dupre), Québec, Que.; University of Alberta (Johnston, Kalra), Edmonton, Alta.; Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation (O'Connell), Fredericton, NB; University of Saskatchewan (Schellenberg), Saskatoon, Sask
| | - Sanjay Kalra
- London Health Sciences Centre (Shoesmith), London, Ont.; Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre (Abrahao, Izenberg, Tandon, Zinman), Toronto, Ont.; Dalhousie University (Benstead, Leddin), Halifax, NS; McMaster University (Chum), Hamilton, Ont.; CHU de Québec-Université Laval (Dupre), Québec, Que.; University of Alberta (Johnston, Kalra), Edmonton, Alta.; Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation (O'Connell), Fredericton, NB; University of Saskatchewan (Schellenberg), Saskatoon, Sask
| | - Desmond Leddin
- London Health Sciences Centre (Shoesmith), London, Ont.; Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre (Abrahao, Izenberg, Tandon, Zinman), Toronto, Ont.; Dalhousie University (Benstead, Leddin), Halifax, NS; McMaster University (Chum), Hamilton, Ont.; CHU de Québec-Université Laval (Dupre), Québec, Que.; University of Alberta (Johnston, Kalra), Edmonton, Alta.; Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation (O'Connell), Fredericton, NB; University of Saskatchewan (Schellenberg), Saskatoon, Sask
| | - Colleen O'Connell
- London Health Sciences Centre (Shoesmith), London, Ont.; Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre (Abrahao, Izenberg, Tandon, Zinman), Toronto, Ont.; Dalhousie University (Benstead, Leddin), Halifax, NS; McMaster University (Chum), Hamilton, Ont.; CHU de Québec-Université Laval (Dupre), Québec, Que.; University of Alberta (Johnston, Kalra), Edmonton, Alta.; Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation (O'Connell), Fredericton, NB; University of Saskatchewan (Schellenberg), Saskatoon, Sask
| | - Kerri Schellenberg
- London Health Sciences Centre (Shoesmith), London, Ont.; Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre (Abrahao, Izenberg, Tandon, Zinman), Toronto, Ont.; Dalhousie University (Benstead, Leddin), Halifax, NS; McMaster University (Chum), Hamilton, Ont.; CHU de Québec-Université Laval (Dupre), Québec, Que.; University of Alberta (Johnston, Kalra), Edmonton, Alta.; Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation (O'Connell), Fredericton, NB; University of Saskatchewan (Schellenberg), Saskatoon, Sask
| | - Anu Tandon
- London Health Sciences Centre (Shoesmith), London, Ont.; Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre (Abrahao, Izenberg, Tandon, Zinman), Toronto, Ont.; Dalhousie University (Benstead, Leddin), Halifax, NS; McMaster University (Chum), Hamilton, Ont.; CHU de Québec-Université Laval (Dupre), Québec, Que.; University of Alberta (Johnston, Kalra), Edmonton, Alta.; Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation (O'Connell), Fredericton, NB; University of Saskatchewan (Schellenberg), Saskatoon, Sask
| | - Lorne Zinman
- London Health Sciences Centre (Shoesmith), London, Ont.; Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre (Abrahao, Izenberg, Tandon, Zinman), Toronto, Ont.; Dalhousie University (Benstead, Leddin), Halifax, NS; McMaster University (Chum), Hamilton, Ont.; CHU de Québec-Université Laval (Dupre), Québec, Que.; University of Alberta (Johnston, Kalra), Edmonton, Alta.; Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation (O'Connell), Fredericton, NB; University of Saskatchewan (Schellenberg), Saskatoon, Sask
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15
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Malhotra C, Bundoc F, Ang FJL, Ozdemir S, Teo I, Sim D, Jaufeerally FR, Aung T, Finkelstein E. Financial difficulties and patient-reported outcomes among patients with advanced heart failure. Qual Life Res 2021; 30:1379-1387. [PMID: 33835413 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-020-02736-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Management of congestive heart failure (CHF) is associated with high health care costs and financial difficulties for patients. We aimed to comprehensively assess the association between financial difficulties and patients' quality of life (QOL) (physical, emotional, social and spiritual), perceived health care quality, and perception of being a burden to the family among patients with CHF; and to assess whether perceived control over stress moderated these associations. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study of 250 patients using the baseline data of the Singapore Cohort of Patients with Advanced Heart Failure (SCOPAH). Patients had class 3 or 4 CHF symptoms based on the New York Heart Association and were recruited between July 2017 and August 2019. We used a 3-item questionnaire to measure financial difficulties among patients. We used multivariable linear/ordered logistic regressions to test associations between financial difficulties and each dependent variable. RESULTS 41% of participants reported financial difficulties. A higher financial difficulties score (range: 0-6, higher score indicating greater difficulty) was associated with lower QOL (emotional, social, and spiritual) and perceived health care coordination, and a higher likelihood of patients perceiving themselves to being a burden to family (all p < 0.05) CONCLUSION: Patients with financial difficulties are vulnerable to poor outcomes. Heart failure clinics should directly assess patients' financial difficulties to help guide treatment-related discussions and to identify patients vulnerable to poor QOL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chetna Malhotra
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore. .,Program in Health Services and Systems Research, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore.
| | - Filipinas Bundoc
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore
| | - Felicia Jia Ler Ang
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore.,Program in Health Services and Systems Research, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore
| | - Semra Ozdemir
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore.,Program in Health Services and Systems Research, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore
| | - Irene Teo
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore.,Centre for Quantitative Medicine, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore
| | - David Sim
- National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Dr, Singapore, 169610, Singapore
| | - Fazlur Rehman Jaufeerally
- National Heart Centre Singapore, 5 Hospital Drive, Singapore, 169609, Singapore.,Singapore General Hospital, Outram Road, Singapore, 169608, Singapore
| | - Than Aung
- National Heart Centre Singapore, 5 Hospital Drive, Singapore, 169609, Singapore
| | - Eric Finkelstein
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore.,Program in Health Services and Systems Research, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore
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16
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Yuan MM, Peng X, Zeng TY, Wu MLY, Chen Y, Zhang K, Wang XJ. The illness experience for people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A qualitative study. J Clin Nurs 2021; 30:1455-1463. [PMID: 33559184 PMCID: PMC8248064 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.15697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Aims and objectives This study aims to gain a comprehensive understanding of the illness experience of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients in China and the meaning they attach to those experiences. Background ALS is a progressive and fatal neurodegenerative disorder that significantly impacts individuals and families. There is a large number of patients with ALS in China. However, little is known about how they live with ALS. Design Phenomenological qualitative research was performed among twenty people with ALS from the neurology department of a tertiary hospital in China. Colaizzi's method was used to analyse the participants’ data. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) was used as a guideline to secure accurate and complete reporting of the study. Results We proposed three themes and eight subthemes on the illness experience of participants: (1) life countdown: ‘my body was frozen’ (body out of control and inward suffering); (2) family self‐help: ‘we kept an eye on each other’ (family warmth and hardship, and supporting the supporter); and (3) reconstruction of life: ‘what was the meaning of my life’ (learning to accept, rebuilding self‐worth, resetting the priority list and living in the moment). Conclusions In the family self‐help model, patients are prompted to turn from negative mentalities to search for meaning in life actively. Healthcare providers need to attach importance to the family self‐help model to alleviate the pressure on medical resources. Relevance to clinical practice Healthcare providers should encourage patients to play a supportive role in the family and provide more care support and professional care knowledge guidance to caregivers, to promote the formation of the family self‐help model which might help to improve the experience of patients and families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Mei Yuan
- Department of Nursing, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xi Peng
- Department of neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Tie-Ying Zeng
- Department of Nursing, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Mei-Li-Yang Wu
- Department of Nursing, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ye Chen
- Department of Nursing, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,School of Nursing, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ke Zhang
- Department of Nursing, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,School of Nursing, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xue-Jun Wang
- Department of Nursing, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,School of Nursing, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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17
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Poppe C, Koné I, Iseli LM, Schweikert K, Elger BS, Wangmo T. Differentiating needs of informal caregivers of individuals with ALS across the caregiving course: a systematic review. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2020; 21:519-541. [PMID: 32657155 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2020.1771735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Informal caregivers of people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) experience a range of needs across the course of the disease. For the provision of adequate support, an examination of the empirical evidence is necessary. AIM The purpose of the systematic review was to synthesize evidence of needs of informal caregivers of people with ALS at different stages of caregiving. METHOD Systematic review of empirical research on needs of ALS informal caregivers in both English and German, from January 2000 to August 2018. We searched the databases EMBASE, MEDLINE (PubMed), PsycINFO, and CINAHL. Study selection, quality assessment, and data extraction was performed independently. Both quantitative and qualitative studies were included. Of the included studies, we additionally screened citing literature in Google Scholar (citation tracking). We linked the narrative synthesis to four stages of caregiving described by Williams and colleagues and used descriptive inductive thematic analysis to structure data within the stages. RESULTS From 3275 abstracts screened, 48 manuscripts met our inclusion criteria. Our data analysis shows that needs differ across the four caregiving stages. While the stage of bereavement (stage 4) includes too little data for separate themes, themes for needs after diagnosis (stage 1), and terminal stage (stage 3) could be specified. As the maintenance (stage 2) stage comprised of themes relevant across the caregiving course, it became an overall stage. DISCUSSION Healthcare professionals need to pay attention to current caregiving stages to provide support for informal caregivers. Further research is needed to tease out support needs for the bereavement phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Poppe
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Insa Koné
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Luzia Margarete Iseli
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Hospital of Herisau, Herisau, Switzerland
| | - Kathi Schweikert
- REHAB Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,University Hospital of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Bernice Simone Elger
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Center of Legal Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Tenzin Wangmo
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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18
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Ando H, Cousins R, Young CA. Exploring and Addressing 'Concerns' for Significant Others to Extend the Understanding of Quality of Life With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Qualitative Study. J Cent Nerv Syst Dis 2019; 11:1179573519859360. [PMID: 31312086 PMCID: PMC6614934 DOI: 10.1177/1179573519859360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The absence of curative medication for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) makes palliative care and understanding quality of life (QoL) in ALS a clinical priority. Previous qualitative research has explored the concept of QoL in terms of illness impact on life perspectives and sense of self. OBJECTIVE In this research, we explored 'concerns' - one of the four aspects in the World Health Organisation's conceptualisation of QoL - towards adding to the literature. METHODS In-depth interviews with 26 individuals with ALS were subjected to thematic analysis involving both inductive and deductive approaches to explore participant's concerns, and to evaluate the relevance of their concerns for understanding QoL in ALS. FINDINGS The analysis showed that concerns for significant others contribute to participant's QoL because of their existential value. It was important for participants to minimise the impact of limitations and burdens associated with ALS on significant others, even at a cost to self. DISCUSSION The current study supports a holistic approach in service provision, ensuring the inclusion of relevant significant others. It is further suggested that clinicians explore the specifics of burdens perceived by patients in order to support them in minimising the burdens for their significant others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hikari Ando
- Respiratory Laboratory, Aintree
University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Rosanna Cousins
- Department of Psychology, Liverpool Hope
University, Liverpool, UK
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19
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Burke T, Hardiman O, Pinto-Grau M, Lonergan K, Heverin M, Tobin K, Staines A, Galvin M, Pender N. Longitudinal predictors of caregiver burden in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a population-based cohort of patient-caregiver dyads. J Neurol 2018; 265:793-808. [PMID: 29396678 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-018-8770-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2017] [Revised: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 01/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Caregiver burden is a recognised consequence of caring for a patient with neurodegeneration. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) differs from other neurodegenerations by its rapid progression and impairment of motor, cognitive, and behavioural function, which contribute to caregiver burden. However, longitudinal factors that determine the extent of caregiver burden, and in particular the impact of psychological distress among caregivers, have not been fully established. METHODS Patients with ALS (n = 85) and their primary caregivers (n = 85) completed three serial evaluations. Caregiver burden was measured using the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI). Anxiety and depression were evaluated using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). The Edinburgh Cognitive-Behavioural ALS Screen (ECAS) was used to determine cognitive function in patients. The ALS Functional Rating Scale (ALSFRS-R) measured disease progression. RESULTS Using the ZBI, caregivers were categorised as high or low burden. In the low burden group, anxiety scores from the HADS predicted caregiver burden (r = 0.410, F = 3.73, p = 0.033), whereas the depression sub-score from the HADS was predictive of caregiver burden in the high burden group (r = 0.501, F = 5.87, p = 0.006) for cross-sectional analyses. Longitudinally, an elevated score on the HADS at Time 1 was the largest predictor of caregiver burden across serial assessments. CONCLUSION In a patient cohort with relatively preserved cognitive function (65%), anxiety and depression at Time 1, as measured by the HADS, were the best predictors of caregiver burden at Time 3. This observation provides a mechanism by which caregiver burden can be identified by health-care professionals and a stepped care programme of intervention initiated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Burke
- Department of Psychology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland. .,Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Dublin 2, Ireland.
| | - Orla Hardiman
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Dublin 2, Ireland.,Department of Neurology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Marta Pinto-Grau
- Department of Psychology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland.,Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Katie Lonergan
- Department of Psychology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland.,Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Mark Heverin
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Katy Tobin
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Anthony Staines
- School of Nursing and Human Sciences, Dublin City University, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Miriam Galvin
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Niall Pender
- Department of Psychology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland.,Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Dublin 2, Ireland
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20
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Foley G, Hynes G. Decision-making among patients and their family in ALS care: a review. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2017; 19:173-193. [DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2017.1353099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Geraldine Foley
- Discipline of Occupational Therapy, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland, and
| | - Geralyn Hynes
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
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21
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Foley G. Burdened by obligation: Recognising the caring roles of people with motor neurone disease. Palliat Med 2016; 30:981-982. [PMID: 27473524 DOI: 10.1177/0269216316661687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Geraldine Foley
- Discipline of Occupational Therapy, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
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