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Sandler MD, Best JC, Samplaski MK, Ghomeshi A, Masterson TA. Snip, Support, and Shared Stories: Exploring Reddit Users' Experiences With Vasectomy. Cureus 2024; 16:e71374. [PMID: 39534819 PMCID: PMC11556733 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.71374] [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: 09/07/2024] [Accepted: 10/12/2024] [Indexed: 11/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Vasectomy is a common procedure for male sterilization. During pre-procedural counseling, men and their partners are often concerned with postoperative pain or sexual dysfunction. Research examining internet forums to explore these concerns is limited. In this study, we selected Reddit, a popular and anonymous online platform for user discussion, to qualitatively investigate patient experiences and questions surrounding vasectomy so healthcare providers may better understand patient concerns. Methods Threads, composed of a primary post to the website and associated comments, are organized into topic-focused forums known as subreddits. We collected threads from the Reddit group "Vasectomy" over a 12-month period. Terms searched included "pain," "volume," "erect," and "ED." Threads not focused on these terms were excluded. Two investigators trained in qualitative research used a modified grounded theory to independently code threads using key phrases. Similar phrases were grouped to form themes, which were refined into concepts. Results Threads discussed pain, ejaculate volume, and erectile dysfunction (ED) after vasectomy. An analysis of 87 threads with 1,052 responses revealed three themes: men on Reddit seek validation, recount their vasectomy experiences, and share anxieties. Concepts suggest men utilize the community to cope with these anxieties and that a discrepancy exists between expectations set by physicians and patients' actual postoperative experiences. Conclusions This study provides valuable clues about patients' perspectives on vasectomy and the information they seek or share online. Discrepancies exist between patient expectations and guidance provided by urologists, suggesting a need for more tailored preoperative counseling. By actively acknowledging concerns about vasectomy, healthcare providers may potentially be able to better understand and cater to patient needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max D Sandler
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, USA
| | - Jordan C Best
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, USA
| | - Mary K Samplaski
- Institute of Urology, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Armin Ghomeshi
- Department of Urology, Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Miami, USA
| | - Thomas A Masterson
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, USA
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Russell RD, He J, Black LJ, Begley A. Evaluating Experiences in a Digital Nutrition Education Program for People With Multiple Sclerosis: A Qualitative Study. Health Expect 2024; 27:e70012. [PMID: 39207907 PMCID: PMC11361266 DOI: 10.1111/hex.70012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 08/11/2024] [Accepted: 08/18/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex immune-mediated disease with no currently known cure. There is growing evidence to support the role of diet in reducing some of the symptoms and disease progression in MS, and we previously developed and tested the feasibility of a digital nutrition education program for people with MS. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to explore factors that influenced engagement in the digital nutrition education program, including features influencing capability, opportunity and motivation to change their dietary behaviours. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with people who had MS, and who completed some or all of the program until data saturation was reached. Interviews were analysed inductively using thematic analysis. Themes were deductively mapped against the COM-B (Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, Behaviour) behaviour change model. RESULTS Sixteen interviews were conducted with participants who completed all (n = 10) or some of the program (n = 6). Four themes emerged: (1) acquiring and validating nutrition knowledge; (2) influence of time and social support; (3) getting in early to improve health and (4) accounting for food literacy experiences. DISCUSSION This is the first online nutrition program with suitable behavioural supports for people with MS. It highlights the importance of disease-specific and evidence-based nutrition education to support people with MS to make dietary changes. Acquiring nutrition knowledge, coupled with practical support mechanisms, such as recipe booklets and goal setting, emerged as crucial for facilitating engagement with the program. CONCLUSIONS When designing education programs for people with MS and other neurological conditions, healthcare professionals and program designers should consider flexible delivery and building peer support to address the needs and challenges faced by participants. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION Members of the MS Nutrition Research Program Stakeholder Reference Group, which includes people with MS and MS health professionals, provided input during the development of the nutrition education program and study design stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. D. Russell
- Curtin School of Population HealthCurtin UniversityPerthAustralia
| | - J. He
- Curtin School of Population HealthCurtin UniversityPerthAustralia
| | - L. J. Black
- Curtin School of Population HealthCurtin UniversityPerthAustralia
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN)Deakin UniversityMelbourneAustralia
| | - A. Begley
- Curtin School of Population HealthCurtin UniversityPerthAustralia
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Wellecke C, Douglas J, Winkler D, Brown M. Peer support needs, preferences and experiences of adults with acquired neurological disability: a scoping review protocol. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e088237. [PMID: 39353698 PMCID: PMC11448202 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-088237] [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: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/29/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Peer support is a promising adjunct to traditional rehabilitation methods for helping adults with acquired neurological disability adjust to and navigate life with a disability. However, there is limited guidance on how to implement peer support for this cohort. To help inform peer support practices, the aim of this scoping review is to determine what is currently known about the peer support needs, preferences and experiences of adults with acquired neurological disability. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The scoping review will be conducted according to guidelines published by Arksey and O'Malley, Levac et al and Peters et al. Reporting will follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews. Systematic searches on five electronic databases (CINAHL, Embase, MEDLINE, PsycINFO and Scopus) will be conducted to identify peer-reviewed research published since 2013 that investigates any type of peer support for adults (18-65 years) with any acquired neurological disability. Information about the study, participant and peer support characteristics, as well as data pertaining to the key outcomes of interest (ie, needs, preferences and experiences), will be charted, summarised and reported. Qualitative data will be analysed using thematic synthesis, and findings will be discussed with 4-6 people with lived experience of acquired neurological disability. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The review does not require an ethics application. It is anticipated that findings will be disseminated through journal publications and conference presentations. Translation of the findings to non-academic audiences will be informed by the consultation with lived experience experts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelia Wellecke
- Summer Foundation, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Living with Disability Research Centre, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jacinta Douglas
- Summer Foundation, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Living with Disability Research Centre, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Di Winkler
- Summer Foundation, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Living with Disability Research Centre, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark Brown
- Summer Foundation, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Living with Disability Research Centre, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Loseto-Gerritzen EV, McDermott O, Orrell M. Development of a Best Practice Guidance on Online Peer Support for People with Young-Onset Dementia. Behav Sci (Basel) 2024; 14:746. [PMID: 39335962 PMCID: PMC11428312 DOI: 10.3390/bs14090746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2024] [Revised: 08/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
This work aimed to develop a Best Practice Guidance on online peer support for people with young-onset dementia (YOD). The Best Practice Guidance was developed through a systematic literature review, focus groups, an online survey, and interviews and consultations with people with YOD and professionals. The Best Practice Guidance consists of two parts. Part 1 contains information for people with YOD about what online peer support entails, what to expect from it, and how to get involved. Part 2 is aimed at those who facilitate or moderate online peer support (professionals or people with lived experience) and includes guidelines on how to optimize online peer support for people with YOD. The Best Practice Guidance on online peer support provides (1) people with YOD with evidence-based, relevant, and accessible information about what online peer support entails and how it could help them, (2) providers and facilitators with guidelines on how to optimize online peer support for people with YOD, and (3) healthcare professionals with a concise and accessible tool for signposting. Future research is needed to implement and disseminate the Best Practice Guidance among dementia organizations and healthcare practices and should include rigorous studies on the implementation and sustainability of online peer support for people with YOD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Vera Loseto-Gerritzen
- Institute of Mental Health, Mental Health and Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2TU, UK; (O.M.); (M.O.)
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Goverover Y, Sharan S, Krupp L, DeLuca J. Exploring the Efficacy of a Remote Strategy-Based Intervention for People With Multiple Sclerosis With Everyday Memory Impairments: A Pilot Study. Am J Occup Ther 2024; 78:7804205020. [PMID: 38801676 DOI: 10.5014/ajot.2024.050468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE This pilot study evaluates a remote strategy-based intervention for individuals with multiple sclerosis who experience everyday memory impairments. The intervention can potentially inform cognitive rehabilitation for this population. OBJECTIVE To investigate the feasibility and efficacy of an intervention (TELE-Self-GEN) to determine whether it can alleviate everyday memory impairments of individuals with multiple sclerosis. DESIGN Pretest-posttest. SETTING Community. PARTICIPANTS Ten adults with multiple sclerosis. INTERVENTION Six synchronous treatment sessions were delivered online via Zoom. The treatment protocol embedded a memory strategy (self-generated learning) within a metacognitive framework, including self-awareness and self-management strategies. The treatment emphasizes when and how self-generation should be used. OUTCOME Measurements assessed feasibility and participants' satisfaction with the intervention and its delivery method, as well as memory, everyday memory, and functional performance. RESULTS Participants expressed high satisfaction with the virtual treatment, highlighting its convenience as a key factor. Treatment resulted in improvements in memory performance, perceived memory ability in daily life, and functional performance. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Results provide initial proof of concept in the utilization of a remotely delivered, strategy-based treatment approach to improve memory performance and functional abilities. The pilot data support a larger randomized clinical trial of the TELE-self-GEN. Plain-Language Summary: The results of this pilot study highlight the promising potential of TELE-self-GEN for people with multiple sclerosis (MS), who face memory challenges every day. This remotely delivered, strategy-based occupational therapy treatment approach, TELE-self-GEN, has the potential to significantly improve functional memory. The study participants reported improvements in their memory performance, perceived memory ability in daily life, and functional performance. These encouraging results serve as a foundation for more extensive clinical trials using TELE-self-GEN for people with MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yael Goverover
- Yael Goverover, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, is Professor, Department of Occupational Therapy, New York University, New York, NY;
| | - Saumya Sharan
- Saumya Sharan, MS, OTR/L, is Student, Department of Occupational Therapy, New York University, New York, NY
| | - Lauren Krupp
- Lauren Krupp, MD, is Professor of Neurology and Director, Multiple Sclerosis Comprehensive Care Center, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY
| | - John DeLuca
- John DeLuca, PhD, is Senior Vice President for Research and Research Training and Professor of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Neurosciences, Kessler Foundation, West Orange, NJ
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Murphy-Morgan C, Brown R, Love C, Branley-Bell D. "Some distance between us": a UK mixed methods study exploring experiences of remote care for eating disorders during COVID-19. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1383080. [PMID: 38903648 PMCID: PMC11187335 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1383080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction COVID-19 necessitated a rapid move from face-to-face services to remote care for eating disorders/eating distress (EDs). This study explores the advantages and challenges of remote care, identifying future implications for service provision. Remote care has been considered in the broadest of terms, including therapeutic care (e.g., Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, peer support, forums, one-to-one and group care options). Methods Using a mixed methods approach, data were collected from 211 people with lived experience of EDs (PWLE), with and without formal diagnosis. 27 participants took part in semi-structured interviews/workshops and a further 184 participants took part via an online survey. Participants reported on their ED status, the impact of the pandemic on symptoms, the benefits, and challenges of remote care (and type of support accessed), and any reasons for not accessing support. Participants were invited to make future care recommendations. Results ED symptoms were reported as worsening during the pandemic with contributing factors including isolation, lack of routine, negative emotions, and feeling like the external situation was outside of one's control. Remote care was positively attributed to increased flexibility and facilitation of social connection. Identified barriers to access included lack of awareness about support availability, digital access/literacy, and competing commitments. Further challenges included approaches being perceived as too clinical (e.g., ED information and support presented using clinical language and/or limited to support within medical care settings, without acknowledging the broader context of disordered eating), uncertainty around remote care quality, and concerns that remote platforms may facilitate masking of symptoms. Participants reported distress caused by online platforms where self-view is the default during video calls. They expressed a need for more holistic approaches to remote care, including: "real stories" of recovery, and hybrid (online and offline) options for greater flexibility and widening of access and choice. Participants also expressed a need for appropriate digital literacy training. Discussion Future recommendations emphasise user-centred holistic and hybrid approaches to ED remote support, with training to address digital literacy barriers and facilitate user control of platform functionalities (e.g., self-view). This study underscores the need for continued remote care with a focus on inclusivity and user empowerment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Murphy-Morgan
- Department of Psychology, Northumbria University, Newcastle uponTyne, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Brown
- Department of Psychology, Northumbria University, Newcastle uponTyne, United Kingdom
| | - Charlotte Love
- School of Psychology, Newcastle University, Newcastle uponTyne, United Kingdom
| | - Dawn Branley-Bell
- Department of Psychology, Northumbria University, Newcastle uponTyne, United Kingdom
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Meijer U, Flink M, Tuvemo Johnson S, Kierkegaard M, Gottberg K, Ytterberg C. Preventing falls in multiple sclerosis: a qualitative study on user requirements for a self-management programme. Disabil Rehabil 2024:1-8. [PMID: 38711397 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2024.2348725] [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: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore perspectives of ambulatory and non-ambulatory people with MS (PwMS) and health care professionals (HCPs) on falls and falls management to gain a deeper understanding of how a self-management programme can be designed to fit the needs of end users. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twelve PwMS and seven HCPs participated in three four-hour workshops based on Design Thinking. Collected data were field notes and digital post-it notes gathered at the workshops. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis with an inductive approach. RESULTS Two main categories, "Managing the complexity of fall-risk behaviour" and "Embracing diversity to establish group engagement", comprising a total of seven categories were constructed from the analysis. The first main category reflects the challenges PwMS face in managing fall risk in their daily lives, and the support needed to address these challenges. The second main category highlights how engaging in peer learning activities can fulfil individual needs and improve learning outcomes for PwMS. CONCLUSION A self-management fall prevention programme that is relevant to PwMS regardless of ambulation level should include the development of self-tailored behavioural strategies to prevent falls along with interactive learning activities with other PwMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrika Meijer
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Maria Flink
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Susanna Tuvemo Johnson
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
- Department of Women's and children's health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Marie Kierkegaard
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
- Academic Specialist Center, Center of Neurology, Stockholm Health Services, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristina Gottberg
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Charlotte Ytterberg
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
- Women's Health and Allied Health Professionals Theme, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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Fernández Ó, Sörensen PS, Comi G, Vermersch P, Hartung HP, Leocani L, Berger T, Van Wijmeersch B, Oreja-Guevara C. Managing multiple sclerosis in individuals aged 55 and above: a comprehensive review. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1379538. [PMID: 38646534 PMCID: PMC11032020 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1379538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) management in individuals aged 55 and above presents unique challenges due to the complex interaction between aging, comorbidities, immunosenescence, and MS pathophysiology. This comprehensive review explores the evolving landscape of MS in older adults, including the increased incidence and prevalence of MS in this age group, the shift in disease phenotypes from relapsing-remitting to progressive forms, and the presence of multimorbidity and polypharmacy. We aim to provide an updated review of the available evidence of disease-modifying treatments (DMTs) in older patients, including the efficacy and safety of existing therapies, emerging treatments such as Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTKs) inhibitors and those targeting remyelination and neuroprotection, and the critical decisions surrounding the initiation, de-escalation, and discontinuation of DMTs. Non-pharmacologic approaches, including physical therapy, neuromodulation therapies, cognitive rehabilitation, and psychotherapy, are also examined for their role in holistic care. The importance of MS Care Units and advance care planning are explored as a cornerstone in providing patient-centric care, ensuring alignment with patient preferences in the disease trajectory. Finally, the review emphasizes the need for personalized management and continuous monitoring of MS patients, alongside advocating for inclusive study designs in clinical research to improve the management of this growing patient demographic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Óscar Fernández
- Departament of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine; Institute of Biomedical Research of Malaga (IBIMA), Regional University Hospital of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology and Pediatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - Per Soelberg Sörensen
- Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Copenhagen and Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Giancarlo Comi
- Department of Neurorehabilitation Sciences, Multiple Sclerosis Centre Casa di Cura Igea, Milan, Italy
- University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Patrick Vermersch
- Univ. Lille, Inserm U1172 LilNCog, CHU Lille, FHU Precise, Lille, France
| | - Hans-Peter Hartung
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Brain and Mind Center, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Palacky University Olomouc, Olomouc, Czechia
| | - Letizia Leocani
- Department of Neurorehabilitation Sciences, Multiple Sclerosis Centre Casa di Cura Igea, Milan, Italy
- University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Thomas Berger
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences & Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Bart Van Wijmeersch
- University MS Centre, Hasselt-Pelt, Belgium
- Rehabilitation and Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Noorderhart Hospitals, Pelt, Belgium
| | - Celia Oreja-Guevara
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Clínico Universitario San Carlos, IdISSC, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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Bevens W, Davenport R, Neate S, Yu M, Jelinek P, Jelinek GA, Reece J. Web-Based Health Information Seeking by People Living With Multiple Sclerosis: Qualitative Investigation of the Multiple Sclerosis Online Course. J Med Internet Res 2024; 26:e53372. [PMID: 38335016 PMCID: PMC10891496 DOI: 10.2196/53372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital technologies have afforded people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) access to telehealth consultations, diagnostic tools, and monitoring. Although health care professionals remain the most trusted source of information, the internet has emerged as a valuable resource for providing MS-related information, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Notably, people living with MS are increasingly seeking educational content for a range of topics related to the self-management of MS; however, web-based information seeking remains largely underevaluated. To address this gap and ensure that web-based health-related information is accessible and engaging, this study used qualitative methods to analyze the reflections from participants of web-based educational programs for people living with MS. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore the motivations, behaviors, and expectations of web-based health information seeking for people living with MS. METHODS We conducted semistructured interviews for 38 people living with MS 1 month after they completed the novel MS Online Course, which provided information on modifiable lifestyle-related risk factors for people living with MS. Of the 38 participants, 22 (58%) completed the intervention course and 16 (42%) completed the standard care course. Inductive thematic analysis was used within a qualitative paradigm, and 2 authors coded each interview separately and arrived at themes with consensus. RESULTS We identified 2 themes: motivation to learn and MS information on the web. The diagnosis of MS was described as a pivotal moment for precipitating web-based information seeking. People living with MS sought lifestyle-related information to facilitate self-management and increase control of their MS. Although social media sites and MS websites were considered useful for providing both support and information, discretion was needed to critically appraise information. Recognizable institutions were frequently accessed because of their trustworthiness. CONCLUSIONS This study provided novel insights into the motivations of people living with MS for seeking web-based health information. Furthermore, their preferences for the content and format of the web-based information accessed and their experiences and reactions to this information were explored. These findings may guide educators, researchers, and clinicians involved in MS care to optimize the engagement and processing of web-based health information seeking by people living with MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Bevens
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, Australia
- Institute for Clinical and Translational Science, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Rebekah Davenport
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Sandra Neate
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, Australia
| | - Maggie Yu
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, Australia
| | - Pia Jelinek
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, Australia
| | - George Alexander Jelinek
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, Australia
| | - Jeanette Reece
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, Australia
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Gerritzen EV, Lee AR, McDermott O, Coulson N, Orrell M. Online peer support for people with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS): a narrative synthesis systematic review. Front Digit Health 2024; 6:1138530. [PMID: 38357638 PMCID: PMC10864493 DOI: 10.3389/fdgth.2024.1138530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) significantly impacts the lives of people with the diagnosis and their families. A supportive social environment is important for people with ALS to adopt effective coping strategies and health behaviours, and reduce depressive symptoms. Peer support can provide a supportive social environment and can happen in-person and online. Advantages of online peer support are that people can engage from their own home, at their own time and pace, and that it offers a variety of different platforms and modes of communication. Objectives To (1) explore the benefits and challenges of online peer support for people with ALS, and (2) identify successful elements of online peer support for people with ALS. Methods The method selected for this systematic review was a narrative synthesis. Six databases were systematically searched in April 2020 for articles published between 1989 and 2020. The search was updated in June 2022. The quality of the included studies was assessed with the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme qualitative research checklist. Results 10,987 unique articles were identified through the systematic database search. Of those, 9 were included in this review. One of the main benefits of online peer support was that people could communicate using text rather than needing verbal communication, which can be challenging for some with ALS. Successful elements included using profile pages and graphics to identify others with similar or relevant experiences. Challenges included ALS symptoms which could make it difficult to use technological devices. Conclusions Peer support can provide a non-judgmental and supportive environment for people with ALS, in which they can exchange experiences and emotional support, which can help people in developing adaptive coping strategies. However, ALS symptoms may make it more difficult for people to use technological devices and engage in online peer support. More research is needed to identify what kind of specific barriers people with ALS experience, and how these could be overcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Vera Gerritzen
- Institute of Mental Health, Mental Health and Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Abigail Rebecca Lee
- Institute of Mental Health, Mental Health and Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Orii McDermott
- Institute of Mental Health, Mental Health and Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Neil Coulson
- Population and Lifespan Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Orrell
- Institute of Mental Health, Mental Health and Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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Gerritzen EV, Orrell M, McDermott O. Optimising Online Peer Support for People with Young Onset Dementia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:60. [PMID: 38248525 PMCID: PMC10815045 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21010060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
People with Young Onset Dementia (YOD) can be hesitant to engage with online peer support. This work aims to explore (1) why people are hesitant to engage in online peer support, (2) how to get more people involved in online peer support, and (3) what makes online peer support work well. Nine interviews with people with YOD were conducted on MS Teams. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling. Data were analysed thematically. Reasons for being hesitant to engage with online peer support include being unsure what to expect and concerns about seeing others in more advanced stages of dementia. Additionally, it can be difficult to identify groups that suit one's needs and interests. Group facilitators of online peer support groups should provide a detailed description of their group so that people can better assess whether the group would suit them. The insights obtained from this study will be used to develop a Best Practice Guidance on online peer support for people with YOD. Moreover, the findings can be useful for further research exploring how to support people with dementia in general in accessing online health and social care services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Vera Gerritzen
- Institute of Mental Health, Mental Health and Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2TU, UK; (M.O.); (O.M.)
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Gerritzen EV, McDermott O, Orrell M. Online peer support: views and experiences of people with young onset dementia (YOD). Aging Ment Health 2023; 27:2386-2394. [PMID: 37162440 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2023.2205833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study explores (1) which platforms people with YOD use for online peer support, (2) reasons for using or not using online peer support, and (3) how to optimise potential benefits and accessibility. METHODS A mixed-methods online survey was conducted including fixed-choice and open questions. Participants were people with YOD recruited through dementia organisations, Join Dementia Research and the NHS using convenience sampling. Fixed-choice questions were analysed with Chi-square test of significance and free-text responses with thematic analysis. RESULTS A total of 69 completed surveys were analysed. Zoom was most popular for online peer support, followed by Facebook and Twitter. Positives included sharing social support, joining from home, and the option to choose a preferred platform. However, it can be difficult to follow the conversation or understand others. Many were unaware about online peer support and some felt uncomfortable talking to strangers online. To improve access and benefits of online peer support organisations and healthcare professionals should advertise and signpost more and groups should have a clear description. CONCLUSION Online platforms facilitate social support and make peer support accessible to those who do not have access to in-person options. Future research and practice should focus on raising awareness about online peer support.
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Affiliation(s)
- E V Gerritzen
- Institute of Mental Health, Mental Health and Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - O McDermott
- Institute of Mental Health, Mental Health and Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - M Orrell
- Institute of Mental Health, Mental Health and Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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