Evaluation of an educational conference for persons affected by hereditary frontotemporal degeneration and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Objective: There are limited studies exploring the support and education needs of individuals at-risk for or diagnosed with hereditary frontotemporal degeneration (FTD) and/or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This study evaluated a novel conference for this population to assess conference effica...

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Main Authors: Laynie Dratch (Author), Weiyi Mu (Author), Elisabeth McCarty Wood (Author), Brianna Morgan (Author), Lauren Massimo (Author), Cynthia Clyburn (Author), Tanya Bardakjian (Author), Murray Grossman (Author), David J. Irwin (Author), Katheryn A.Q. Cousins (Author)
Format: Book
Published: Elsevier, 2023-12-01T00:00:00Z.
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Summary:Objective: There are limited studies exploring the support and education needs of individuals at-risk for or diagnosed with hereditary frontotemporal degeneration (FTD) and/or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This study evaluated a novel conference for this population to assess conference efficacy, probe how participants assessed relevant resources, and identify outstanding needs of persons at-risk/diagnosed. Methods: We implemented a post-conference electronic survey that probed participants' satisfaction, prior experience with resources, and unmet needs. Along with multiple-choice, free-text items were included to gather qualitative context. Results: Survey completion rate was 31% (115/376 attendees who were emailed the survey). There was positive interest in pursuing genetic counseling among eligible responders: 61% indicated they planned to seek genetic counseling because of the conference, which was significantly more than those who were undecided (21%) or did not plan to seek genetic counseling (18%). Qualitative data demonstrated need for additional education, support, and research opportunities. Conclusion: Conference reactions indicate this is a valued resource. Results indicated the importance of raising awareness about existing resources, and the need for further resource development, especially for at-risk communities. Innovation: While most resources are developed for caregivers' needs, this unique program targets at-risk individuals and unites ALS and FTD communities.
Item Description:2772-6282
10.1016/j.pecinn.2022.100108