Health and Social Profile of Older Adults With MS: Findings From Three Studies

Currently in the United States, approximately 45% of people with multiple sclerosis (MS) are older than 55. The majority of these people can expect to live as long as their age peers. This paper provides a health and social profile of 440 older adults with MS (mean age, 64) using data from three separate studies conducted in Canada and the United States. The majority of participants were women, married, living with at least one other person, and reporting that their income was adequate to meet their needs. The most common symptoms reported included fatigue, problems with balance, and weakness. Participants had the most difficulty with doing heavy housework, making a hot meal, managing finances, and bathing. Overall, most participants reported their health as poor. Comparing these findings to existing literature suggests important health differences between younger and older people with MS, and between older adults with and without MS, that may not be sufficiently recognized by existing services. (Int J MS Care. 2002; 4: 139–143, 148–151)