The Effects of Economic Disadvantage on Psychological Well-being and Quality of Life among People with Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of economic disadvantage among people with multiple sclerosis (MS) on their psychological well-being and quality of life. Participants were 113 people with MS (31 males, 82 females). Information was obtained on income, lost income, costs of MS, economic pressure, coping, psychological well-being and quality of life. Economic pressure, and not actual MS-related costs predicted psychological well-being. Costs, economic pressure and coping predicted quality of life. These results demonstrate that pressure due to changed economic circumstances, as well as coping with these pressures is important in the quality of life of people with MS.

Factors associated with health-related quality of life after successful kidney transplantation: a population-based study

“…Several general population studies have found associations between lower income and decreased HRQoL [37,39]. Low income has also been associated with worse health-related quality of life in other chronic diseases such as cancer [40][41][42], multiple sclerosis [43], diabetes melitus [44] and chronic renal disease on dialysis [45].…”

Meanings of Feeling Well for Women With Multiple Sclerosis

“…Studies have shown that occupational conditions, changes in economic circumstances, depression, fatigue, and disabilities are factors that affect life quality among people with MS (Amato et al, 2001;McCabe & De Judicibus, 2005;Miller & Dishon, 2006). Medical treatment for depression and coping with stress tends to improve the quality of life among people suffering from MS (Hart, Fonareva, Merluzzi, & Mohr, 2006;Sutherland, Andersen, & Morris, 2005).…”

The impact of increasing neurological disability of multiple sclerosis on health utilities: a systematic review of the literature

“…Relapses (as defined by the occurrence of a new neurological symptom or worsening of an old one, with an objective change in functional system scale scores, lasting at least 24 hours, without fever, and which followed a period of clinical stability or of improvement of at least 30 days 4 ) may result in hospitalization and be associated with a level of disability that disrupts work, social, and family life 1,[5][6][7] . Even in early stages, MS can restrict professional and personal activities.…”