Social remedial measures for multiple sclerosis patients in Denmark

A total of 57 patients admitted to the Danish Multiple Sclerosis Society's treatment and nursing home in Haslev have been interviewed about their socio-medical situation concerning their course of disease, physical, psychic and economic status, family relationships, and different assistance needs. Sixty per cent lived together, and of the solitary only 9 were unmarried. None were employed fulltime and as a whole they received higher allowances than other disabled persons. All suffered from walking impairment. 17 had no wheelchair, 21 had a wheelchair and limited walking ability, 19 could move around only by wheelchair. None were bedridden. The distribution of housing corresponded to that of other disabled persons but was inferior to that of the population as a whole. 54 per cent had got modifications to housing paid for by the public authorities and 42 per cent had a car for the disabled. 47 per cent alleged that their need for transportation remained uncared for. None of the patients were lonely to a severe degree. Expenses for medicine and transportation varied greatly, showing inequality of grant administration. The results of the investigation are discussed.