Communication as a complex act in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: survey with on patient and caregiver
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54103/dn/26824Keywords:
Amiotrophic Lateral Schlerosis, Communication, Caregivers, Nursing, NursesAbstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a condition characterized by the progressive degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons, leading to muscle paralysis and resulting in impairments in movement, respiration, swallowing, and speech. As the disease progresses, individuals with ALS increasingly struggle to communicate their needs, experiences, and emotions. This situation necessitates the adoption of new communication methods, such as Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), by both individuals with ALS and their caregivers. This study aims to explore the communication challenges faced by individuals with ALS and their caregivers, as well as the utilization of alternative communication methods. A questionnaire was administered to 20 individuals with ALS and their 39 caregivers. The findings indicate that communication difficulties are experienced by both individuals with ALS and their caregivers, often restricting communication to essential matters. Additionally, 50% of the participants reported having access to an AAC device.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Simona Tufoni, Laura Grappini, Isabella Baglioni, Fabio Sarzana, Enrico Ceroni

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.
Accepted 2024-12-02
Published 2025-01-31





