Independent outdoor mobility of persons with multiple sclerosis - A systematic review

F E van der Feen; G A de Haan; I van der Lijn; D J Heersema; J F Meilof; J Heutink

doi:10.1016/j.msard.2019.101463

Independent outdoor mobility of persons with multiple sclerosis - A systematic review

Mult Scler Relat Disord. 2020 Jan:37:101463. doi: 10.1016/j.msard.2019.101463. Epub 2019 Oct 22.

Authors

F E van der Feen¹, G A de Haan², I van der Lijn³, D J Heersema⁴, J F Meilof⁵, J Heutink⁶

Affiliations

¹ Clinical and Developmental Neuropsychology, University of Groningen, Grote Kruisstraat 1/2, 9712 TS Gronigen, the Netherlands; Royal Dutch Visio, Centre of Expertise for Blind and Partially Sighted People, PO box 1180, 1270 BD Huizen, the Netherlands. Electronic address: f.e.van.der.feen@rug.nl.
² Clinical and Developmental Neuropsychology, University of Groningen, Grote Kruisstraat 1/2, 9712 TS Gronigen, the Netherlands; Royal Dutch Visio, Centre of Expertise for Blind and Partially Sighted People, PO box 1180, 1270 BD Huizen, the Netherlands. Electronic address: g.a.de.haan@rug.nl.
³ Clinical and Developmental Neuropsychology, University of Groningen, Grote Kruisstraat 1/2, 9712 TS Gronigen, the Netherlands; Royal Dutch Visio, Centre of Expertise for Blind and Partially Sighted People, PO box 1180, 1270 BD Huizen, the Netherlands. Electronic address: i.van.der.lijn@rug.nl.
⁴ Department of Neurology, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, PO box 30001, 9700 RB Groningen, the Netherlands. Electronic address: d.j.heersema@umcg.nl.
⁵ Department of Neurology, Martini Hospital Groningen, PO box 30033, 9700 RM Groningen, the Netherlands. Electronic address: meilofjf@mzh.nl.
⁶ Clinical and Developmental Neuropsychology, University of Groningen, Grote Kruisstraat 1/2, 9712 TS Gronigen, the Netherlands; Royal Dutch Visio, Centre of Expertise for Blind and Partially Sighted People, PO box 1180, 1270 BD Huizen, the Netherlands. Electronic address: j.h.c.heutink@rug.nl.

PMID: 31678858
DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2019.101463

Abstract

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) can manifest itself in many ways, all of which can affect the independent outdoor mobility of persons with MS (pwMS). In most studies, mobility of pwMS is defined by the ability to walk. However, mobility comprises more than walking alone. This systematic review provides an overview of the literature on several types of independent outdoor mobility of pwMS. We aimed to identify which specific factors may influence outdoor mobility and how the lives of pwMS may be affected by a reduced mobility.

Methods: A systematic literature search was performed, using three databases (PubMed, PsychInfo and Web of Science). Studies had to describe a group of pwMS sclerosis and had to concern some type of mobility other than walking.

Results: The 57 studies that fulfilled the criteria included in total 10,394 pwMS and in addition, 95,300 pwMS in separate prevalence study. These studies showed that pwMS as a group have a decreased fitness to drive, make use of a wheelchair or mobility scooter more often and have difficulties making use of public transport. Mobility problems especially occur in patients with cognitive problems, secondary progressive MS or high disability scores.

Conclusions: The reduced mobility may prevent pwMS participating in society. However, few studies investigating interventions or rehabilitation options to improve mobility were found in the existing literature, highlighting an until now under recognised unmet need.

Keywords: Driving; Mobility; Multiple sclerosis; Rehabilitation; Wheelchair.

Publication types

Systematic Review

MeSH terms

Automobile Driving*
Humans
Multiple Sclerosis / rehabilitation*
Wheelchairs*