Keywords

chronic condition, disability, health promotion, multiple sclerosis, NUD-IST, quality of life, rehabilitation

 

Authors

  1. Stuifbergen, Alexa K. PhD, RN
  2. Rogers, Sharon MSN, RN

Abstract

This qualitative study was undertaken to clarify an emerging explanatory model of health-promoting behaviors and quality of life in individuals with chronic disabling conditions. Twenty individuals with multiple sclerosis shared their stories regarding health promotion, domains of quality of life, and factors that affected these domains. Health-promoting behaviors were viewed as essential to the process of rehabilitation and maintaining an acceptable quality of life. Important quality-of-life issues were related to domains other than function. implications are that health promotion efforts need to be encouraged and supported in individuals with chronic disabling conditions.