What Do People with Multiple Sclerosis Want from an Occupational Therapy Service?

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to understand how people with multiple sclerosis (MS) experienced a local occupational therapy service and to identify what they would want from future services. Method: The data from this qualitative programme evaluation were generated through nine focus groups, including 30 people with a clinically definite diagnosis of MS, 10 partners/carers of people with MS and six occupational therapy staff. Findings: The findings evolved within four key themes: comprehension of occupational therapy; assessment and interventions; home visits; and levels of support. Although occupational therapy was not initially well understood, comprehension developed with greater use of the service. Nevertheless, significant challenges exist in providing therapeutic programmes that offer meaning and purpose within the lives of people with MS while ensuring flexibility and choice. Conclusion: This study suggests that there is a possible distinction between what occupational therapists believe people with MS want and what they and their partners/carers do want. People with MS and their partners/carers, therefore, have a meaningful contribution to make and should be involved in the future development of occupational therapy services.