Resilience-Based Program for Support Partners of Persons With Multiple Sclerosis

This is a pilot feasibility study to examine the impact of providing a non-therapeutic resilience-based coaching telehealth program to the Support Partners (SP) of persons with MS (PwMS). Cognitive difficulties are a prominent feature in PwMS and prove to be a challenge for PwMS and the close family members that care for them. This study is a pilot telehealth program that aims to address these needs and improve the overall well-being of adults with MS and their Support Partners. A manualized program was developed utilizing the previous research study conducted literature, and the expertise and experience of the research study team. Funding was sought and obtained for 30 pairs to participate in the pilot. The 6-session program will address needs identified by this population and improve knowledge of cognition in PwMS. Study Objectives: Primary Objective: To conduct an evaluation of the feasibility of the resilience program by examining: 1. Recruitment (i.e. willingness to participate in program) 2. Participation rates and attrition 3. Participant satisfaction of the program. Secondary Objective (Support Partner): To assess the potential long-term benefits of the program to Support Partners of PwMS. Program benefits will be assessed using the following outcomes: 1. Sense of Competencies 2. Understanding of cognitive impairment in MS 3. Caregiver burden 4. Positive Emotions. Secondary Objective (PwMS): To assess the potential long-term benefits of the program to PwMS. Program benefits will be assessed using the following outcomes: 1. Relationship Satisfaction 2. Perceived Support.