Nurturing a valuable resource: family caregivers in multiple sclerosis

Neuroscience nurses are most likely to encounter multiple sclerosis (MS) patients in outpatient clinic situations or during their usually brief admissions to acute care facilities. In the early stages of their disease, most people with MS are able to live normal lives in their own homes. Then disabilities (weakness, loss of control of limbs and of bowel and bladder function, sensory and visual impairment) become permanent, the possibility of remaining in the community is usually made feasible only by the presence of a family caregiver in the home. Although community care of persons with MS is socially and economically desirable, many literature sources discuss the "burden" of family caregiving. This study examined the impact of caregiving on 61 MS family caregivers in British Columbia. The report of the study will include information regarding the caregiver's physical and mental health, health behaviours, participation in and satisfaction with preferred activities, and financial resources. In spite of marked health deficits in all domains, most caregivers reported their desire to remain in the role. Study findings will be used to describe how health professionals such as neuroscience nurses can support caregivers even with limited contact. Areas in which specific improvements in community resources and public policy are needed will also be discussed.

1. Describe deficits in well-being reported by this group of caregivers. 2. Describe nursing interventions that will support the family member in the caregiving role. 3. Identify potential changes in public policy and adjunctive services that could facilitate the caregiver's work.