Perspectives of motor neurone disease

Abstract

This preliminary study explores the everyday needs and requirements of patients with motor neurone disease (MND) and indicates similarities and differences between the patient's viewpoint, that of their main carer and that of their occupational therapist (OT). The study highlights differences between the three subject groups. The MND subjects' views centred on physical needs, the carers on the emotional and psychological impact of MND and caring, while that of the OTs focused on the co-ordination of physical and psychological aspects of MND, both for patient and carer. The primary need agreed upon by all subject groups was the essential role of the carer in the management of MND.