Coping strategies in relation to quality of life in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Introduction: The aim of this study was to examine the coping strategies of 49 patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and the relationships of these strategies to their perceived health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Methods: Forty-nine subjects were assessed for collection of demographic and medical data. Each one was then asked to complete a questionnaire of coping strategies (Brief COPE) as well as a questionnaire of health-related duality of life (36-item Short Form). Results: Correlation analysis showed strong relationships between some coping and HRQoL dimensions, including: emotional support and physical functioning (P = 0.01) and emotional role functioning (P = 0.02); venting and mental health (P = 0.04); positive reframing and mental health (P = 0.03); and disengagement and emotional role functioning (P = 0.03). Conclusions: The relationships between some coping strategies and certain dimensions of HRQoL are shown. We now understand the usefulness of focusing on coping strategies to improve HRQoL in ALS. Muscle Nerve 45: 131–134, 2012