Introduction: The aim of this study was to examine the coping strategies of 49 patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and the relationships of these strategies to their perceived health-related quality of life (HRQoL).
Methods: Forty-nine subjects were assessed for collection of demographic and medical data. Each one was then asked to complete a questionnaire of coping strategies (Brief COPE) as well as a questionnaire of health-related duality of life (36-item Short Form).
Results: Correlation analysis showed strong relationships between some coping and HRQoL dimensions, including: emotional support and physical functioning (P = 0.01) and emotional role functioning (P = 0.02); venting and mental health (P = 0.04); positive reframing and mental health (P = 0.03); and disengagement and emotional role functioning (P = 0.03).
Conclusions: The relationships between some coping strategies and certain dimensions of HRQoL are shown. We now understand the usefulness of focusing on coping strategies to improve HRQoL in ALS.
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