A Telehealth Intervention to Enhance Quality of Life for People with Multiple Sclerosis and their Care Partners
Principal Investigator: Elaine T. Kiriakopoulos, MD, MPH, MSc
Research Project Manager: Sarah J. Kaden, BA
Funding Source: United States Department of Defense
Study enrollment begins September 15, 2025
Nearly 1 million people in the United States are diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). People with MS report lower quality of life than the general population. Cognitive challenges, such as issues with memory, attention, and thinking commonly accompany MS. HOBSCOTCH is an evidence-based self-management and cognitive training program that is designed to assist people living with MS to manage their memory and thinking problems and improve their quality of life.
With the help of a grant from the U.S. Department of Defense, the HOBSCOTCH program has been adapted to meet the needs of civilians and Veterans with MS and will be tested in a study to determine its efficacy for improving quality of life and cognition. The HOBSCOTCH-MS program teaches people how MS and cognitive problems can be related, and how to find strategies and solutions to better manage the day-to-day challenges that can occur.
Caregivers are invited to participate in the HOBSCOTCH-MS study along with their loved ones who have MS and cognitive challenges.
Frequently asked questions
Are you interested in learning more about the HOBSCOTCH-MS study? Here are some frequently asked questions.
Is this study right for me?
This study is right for you if you:
- Are 20-75 years of age
- Have a diagnosis of relapsing or progressive MS
- Have cognitive problems (memory, thinking, attention)
- Are willing to complete assessments (surveys and brief cognitive assessment)
- Have telephone and internet access
How long will I be enrolled in the study?
The entire study (including surveys) is approximately 6 months with 9 one-on-one coaching sessions delivered virtually by a certified HOBSCOTCH Coach.
What are the components of the HOBSCOTCH-MS Program?
The components of HOBSCOTCH-MS are:
- Education on cognition and MS
- Self-awareness training
- Problem solving therapy
- Memory strategies
- Mindfulness and quick relaxation exercises
What will I learn?
You will learn:
- How MS can impact your memory and thinking
- Strategies to help with your organization, social skills and managing your MS
- Ways to reduce your stress and skills to improve your memory
- Ways to improve your quality of life
Will I be paid for my time?
Yes! You can receive up to $100 for participating in the study and completing assessments.
Is this different than medical care?
Yes. This program does not replace regular medical care. The program is not billed to insurance and does not require a referral from your doctor.
I am interested in enrolling in the study. What are the next steps?
If you are interested in participating in the HOBSCOTCH-MS study or have additional questions, please contact our study coordinator, Meredith Olenec, BA, by phone at 603-650-4225 or by email at HOBSCOTCH-MS.Research@hitchcock.org