In their own words: coping processes among women aging with multiple sclerosis

SUMMARY People with multiple sclerosis (MS) employ a variety of coping mechanisms throughout the process of managing their disease. This study describes the coping processes used by women aging with MS. Participants in the study included 23 women living in the Chicago area aged 55 years or older and diagnosed with MS for a minimum of 15 years. Data were gathered through in-depth semi-structured qualitative interviews. Findings suggest that participants who reported integrating MS into their lives, had confidence in their abilities to cope with stress, and had a positive outlook on life appeared to employ action-oriented strategies to cope with their disease. Findings from the study offer ideas and direction for occupational therapy interventions for women aging with multiple sclerosis.