Psychometric properties of three self-report questionnaires assessing dual-task difficulties in people with multiple sclerosis: A multicenter study within the RIMS network

Abstract

Introduction: People with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) experience functional limitations which threaten the performance of meaningful activities and occupations that belong to different life domains: self-care, productivity, and leisure. Consequently, the balance between these domains (i.e. occupational balance (OB)) is threatened. Also the social context of PwMS experiences often a negative impact of MS on their occupational balance (e.g. one may be threatened in productivity as they act as a social caregiver). Aim: To develop and select appropriate interventions targeting OB of both PwMS and their social context, professionals should have instruments to measure OB in both groups. The aim is to translate and test the feasibility of two OB questionnaires which are based on the same theoretical background: the OB-Care (i.e. for caregivers) and OB-quest (i.e. for PwMS). Method: In a first work package (WP) both questionnaires will be translated to Dutch and French and backward to English. In a second WP, both questionnaires will be pilot-tested in a small sample of PwMS and their social caregivers in the National MS Center Melsbroek. Hereby, the usability will be explored using the NASA-TLX questionnaire. In a third WP, both questionnaires will be tested for feasibility and usability in a larger sample of PwMS and their social caregivers. Hereby, also the health care professionals will be asked to evaluate the usability. Results: At time of abstract submission an international research-consortium is established and the protocol is developed. The protocol will be presented at the euRIMS 2023 annual. Final results are expected at the end of 2024, and will be presented at the euRIMS annual conference.