Effectiveness of inpatient rehabilitation on self-care abilities of individuals with multiple sclerosis

Objectives: This study examined: the self-care outcomes of a 1-week rehabilitation program for individuals with multiple sclerosis; the frequency of use and effectiveness of adapted equipment prescribed; and the satisfaction with occupational therapy services. Study Design: Self-care abilities of 30 adults with multiple sclerosis were evaluated on admission, at discharge, and 6-weeks post-discharge. Changes in self-care scores were analyzed using one-way ANOVAs of repeated measures. Results: Tub/shower transfers, toileting, feeding, grooming, upper body dressing, and lower body dressing scores improved significantly between admission and discharge. In addition, they continued to improve significantly between discharge and 6-weeks post-discharge except for feeding. Of the adapted equipment prescribed by the occupational therapists 85% was used and 94% of the equipment used was described as effective. Finally, 100% of the participants were satisfied with occupational therapy services provided. Conclusion: A 1-week inpatient rehabilitation program significantly improved the self-care abilities of participants with multiple sclerosis.