Monday 23 September at 2pm
In our next information session, we will be joined by Dr Paul Bradley-Hoffman who is the lead clinical psychologist working at University Hospital of Wales, who will be talking to us on the topic of cognition and multiple sclerosis (MS).
Dr Bradley-Hoffman will be discussing the impact of cognitive dysfunction in MS and associated symptoms, including memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and impaired executive function. These symptoms can lead to problems with planning, organising, and decision-making. Cognitive dysfunction in MS can arise from both biological factors, such as the lesions caused by MS and psychological components, including stress and depression related to living with a chronic illness.
We will explore options for cognitive rehabilitation and management strategies to improve function and overall wellbeing for people living with MS. Key aspects include lifestyle changes like diet, weight management, smoking cessation and alcohol reduction, along with addressing other medical conditions. Other areas include medications specific to MS, exercise, fatigue management and ensuring adequate sleep are also crucial.
Cognitive strategies for individuals with MS can be compensatory, aiming to mitigate cognitive deficits. These include memory aids, brain training, and neural stimulation exercises. Therapeutic approaches such as Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) foster mental flexibility and resilience. Emphasising adjustment and acceptance helps individuals cope with cognitive changes, aligning their activities with personal values and goals.
Accessing resources and services for cognitive health is essential for those with MS. We will provide information on available support systems and how to utilise them effectively. Additionally, we will discuss current research initiatives like Neuropsychological Evaluation and Rehabilitation in Multiple Sclerosis (NeuRoMS), which is developing a cognitive screening pathway for the NHS, aiming to enhance diagnostic and therapeutic processes.
Please do join us for an in-depth discussion on cognition and cognitive dysfunction in multiple sclerosis. Learn about practical strategies for assessment, impact management and rehabilitation, as well as the latest research and resources to support cognitive health in MS.
The latest edition of the booklet includes a number of updates for accessing professional help, self-management techniques and planning for the future. You can view and download the latest version of our Cognition Choices booklet.
If you are unable to make the live session, don’t worry as we will be recording the presentation and will make it available to watch again for all those who have registered and have purchased a ticket for this workshop.
Paul is a Clinical Psychologist registered with the HCPC and a qualified ISTDP practitioner (Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy).
Paul has nine years experience working with people with MS leading the neuropsychology service for people with MS and other Neuroinflammatory diseases/conditions in the NHS, based in Cardiff and covering 3 health boards across South East Wales.
He is therefore a busy individual who continually looks to develop and refine resources to enable the smooth running of services responding to changes in needs and availability of resources. Paul is responsible for raising the profile of psychological factors involved in physical health and illness to improve patient’s wellbeing in a medical setting. He supports a large team of neurologists and specialist nurses, occupational therapists and physiotherapists and links in with other support services both in the NHS and in the local community.
To join this session, please login or register in our Portal area. The session is free to join if you have a monthly or year subscription. You do not need a subscription to join, as you can register and provide a donation for the class. The suggested amount for the class is £5. If you unable to make a donation, please contact us to see how you can access the online classes.
A recording will be made available after the class and can be viewed if you have purchased a ticket either before or after the class has taken place.
If you would like to know more or you are having trouble registering, please contact us at register@ms-uk.org.
