| dc.description.abstract | Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that can negatively affect the physical, emotional, and social aspects of one's life. This purpose of this descriptive-correlational study was to explore the relationships among individual characteristics, perceived healthcare provider engagement, treatment adherence, functional ability, and quality of life in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS). Additionally, differences in perceived healthcare provider engagement, treatment adherence, functional ability, and quality of life were examined across the four MS disease stages of relapsing-remitting, secondary-progressive, primary-progressive, and progressive-relapsing. A convenience sample of individuals (N = 158) with MS completed an online survey related to perceived healthcare provider engagement, treatment adherence, functional ability, and quality of life. Moderate correlations were found between perceived healthcare provider engagement and treatment adherence (r = .389, p < .000) along with perceived healthcare provider engagement and quality of life (r = .355, p < .000). A strong correlation was found between treatment adherence and quality of life (r = .437, p < .000) and a weak correlation between functional ability and quality of life (r = .218, p = .001). Additionally, significant group differences were found related to functional ability across MS disease stages, X2;2(2, n = 147) = 6.92, p < 0.001. Post hoc analysis revealed a difference between individuals with relapsing-remitting status (M = 9.19, SD = 1.16) and secondary-progressive status (M = 7.06, SD = 2.75) on functional ability, U = 444, p < .000. The results of this study provide the basis for future research using experimental designs to examine specific factors affecting quality of life among those with MS. | en_US |
