Functional Decline is Associated with Hopelessness in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

Abstract

Objective To determine the relationships between hopelessness, depression, quality of life, and disease progression in ALS. Methods Hopelessness and depression were assessed prospectively in a cohort of people with ALS using the Beck Hopelessness scale (BHS) and the ALS Depression Inventory (ADI-12), respectively. ALS Specific Quality of Life and measures of functional status (ALSFRS-R and forced vital capacity) were collected. Associations between changes in psychological health and functional scores were calculated using Spearman correlation coefficients. Results Twenty-five people with ALS had at least 2 visits and were followed for a mean of 11 (± 6) months. People with hopelessness and depression reported worse quality of life (p<0.01 for both associations). Decline in function between any two visits measured by ALSFRS-R (p<0.01) and FVC (p=0.02) correlated with increased hopelessness, but not depression. Conclusion This study highlights the importance of monitoring hopelessness in ALS, particularly in patients with faster functional decline.

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: An Update for 2018

“…An ALS diagnosis is a major psychological stressor, and although depression and anxiety are not necessarily more common in the ALS population compared with the general population, depression and hopelessness are likely negative prognostic factors for ALS and should, thus, be treated if present. 65,66 Counseling and peer support groups for patients and caregivers are often valued. Fatigue is another common symptom that has been treated successfully with stimulants, and contributing respiratory problems should be addressed.…”

A Dedicated Tool Frame Based Tongue Interface Layout Improves 2D Visual Guided Control of an Assistive Robotic Manipulator: A Design Parameter for Tele-Applications

“…The level of independence, life satisfaction, and quality of life (QoL) are expected to decrease over time for individuals with traumatic SCI [4]. Furthermore, functional decline has been correlated with a sense of hopelessness in individuals with ALS, which has been shown to predict suicidal attempts and suicides [5]. Therefore, it is crucial to empower severely disabled individuals by finding solutions that increase their independency.…”

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“…Patients with ALS develop a number of emotional issues, especially anxiety, fear and depression (Unglik et al, 2018). Physical disability and imminent death increase the likelihood of hopelessness and desire for physician‐assisted suicide (Paganoni et al, 2017). They are also more likely to feel burdensome, resulting in a discredited definition of themselves and a diminished will to live (Foley et al, 2016).…”

“…Patients with ALS develop a number of emotional issues, especially anxiety, fear and depression (Unglik et al, 2018). Physical disability and imminent death increase the likelihood of hopelessness and desire for physician-assisted suicide (Paganoni et al, 2017).…”