Comparison of older and younger individuals with multiple sclerosis: A preliminary investigation

Objective: To describe and contrast physical functioning, mental health, and quality of life of older individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) with those of younger individuals with MS. Design/Participants: Thirty older (age greater than or equal to 60 years) and 30 younger participants with MS (age < 60 years) completed telephone interviews. Main Outcome Measures: Selected subtests of the Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life Instrument, Patient-Determined Disease Steps, Profile of Mood States-Shortened Version, Beck Depression Inventory, and Activities of Daily Living Scale. Results: After accounting for duration of illness, older individuals reported greater physical impairment than younger individuals but did not report poorer quality of life or mental health. Conclusion: Older individuals may undergo a psychological adjustment process enabling them to cope with physical impairment.