Predicting Health Promotion and Quality of Life With Symptom Clusters and Social Supports Among Older Adults With...

Symptoms common among individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) may influence health promotion and quality of life, especially among older adults, who often experience multiple chronic conditions. To identify and examine symptom clusters' effect on health promotion and quality of life, data from 215 adults with MS older than 60 (average years with diagnosis = 29) were analyzed. Correlations among symptoms ranged from 0.33 to 0.81. Factor analysis identified two symptom clusters: (a) physical/psychological/cognitive symptoms and (b) pain symptoms. In multiple hierarchical regressions, controlling for demographics and functional limitations, physical/psychological/cognitive symptoms significantly improved prediction on Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile II interpersonal relations, stress management, and total scores; pain symptoms predicted nutrition scores. Both symptom clusters predicted spiritual growth and quality of life. Social support was a significant predictor of all outcomes. Symptom clusters, along with social support, should be considered in care and interventions for older adults with MS. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 43(10), 27-36.].