Self-efficacy and Physical and Cognitive Function in Older Adults with Multiple Sclerosis

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) prevalence is increasing in older adults.
• Aging with MS is associated with functional decline and reduced self-efficacy.
• Understanding factors influencing function in older adults with MS is critical.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the relationship between self-efficacy and physical/cognitive function in older adults (≥ 60 years) with MS.
• To identify specific self-efficacy components associated with functional outcomes.
• To provide evidence for targeted interventions to improve function in this demographic.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study of 40 older adults with MS.
• Utilized the Multiple Sclerosis Self-efficacy (MSSE) Scale.
• Assessed physical and cognitive function, and measured daily activity with accelerometers.

Main Results:

• The MSSE function subscale strongly correlated with physical function measures.
• Self-efficacy for function, not control, was associated with physical performance.
• The function subscale was a consistent predictor of physical function outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Self-efficacy for function is significantly associated with physical function in older adults with MS.
• These findings underscore the importance of addressing self-efficacy in rehabilitation strategies.
• Further research is recommended to develop interventions targeting self-efficacy to enhance physical function in aging MS populations.