Researchers at the University of Washington are conducting a study exploring the impact of MS on participation in everyday communication activities (activities in which you are talking to people). This study is for people who have experienced changes in their speech or cognitive functions as a result of MS. Investigators are developing a questionnaire to be used in future research and in speech therapy clinics. The study needs participants to complete a set of questionnaires about living with the speech or cognitive changes due to MS. The information from this study will be used to test the questionnaire that is being developed. The information will also help researchers learn more about people’s experiences living with MS.
Participants in this study will be asked to complete a set of questionnaires. You may fill these out at home on your own schedule. It will take you about an hour to complete all the questionnaires. You can take breaks as you need to and complete them at a pace that is comfortable for you. You may fill out these questionnaires online or on paper forms that will be mailed to you.
You are eligible to participate if you are an adult age 18 years or older. You must have been diagnosed with MS at least three months ago. You must be living in the community (for example at home or in assisted living). Nursing home residents are not eligible for this study. You must use speech as your primary method of communication. You may use writing or augmentative devices to help you communicate, but most of your communication must be by speaking. It does not matter what kind of treatments you have had for your condition. Minorities are strongly encouraged to participate.
You will receive $20 for completing the questionnaires (your choice of a $20 check or $20 gift card to Amazon.com). Participation in this study is voluntary. You are free to stop your participation at any time. Your participation is not related to any medical care you are receiving at any facility. Your participation is not related to your involvement in any support or advocacy groups.
More information about this study is available at: http://staff.washington.edu/cbaylor.
If you have questions or are interested in participating, you may use the contact method you prefer. If you leave a message, please include that you are interested in the “MS study.”
Email: [email protected] (they cannot guarantee the confidentiality of information sent via email)
Phone: 206-221-3563 (you may leave a voicemail with your mailing address if you would like a questionnaire mailed to you)
Mailing address: Carolyn Baylor, Ph.D., Box 356490. Dept. of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195.
Source for this information came from the MS Foundation
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