Adults with multiple sclerosis (MS) are being invited to take part in a new study by researchers at NUI Galway.

MS is a chronic disease of the central nervous system, which affects around 9,000 people in Ireland. It causes a gradual degeneration of the nerves. This results in a progressive deterioration in various functions controlled by the nervous system, such as vision, speech and movement.

Up to 60% of those affected also have problems with cognition and this can have a major impact on quality of life.

The NUI Galway team is currently recruiting people aged 18 and older to take part in a new nine-week Cognitive Occupation-Based Programme for People with MS (COB-MS).

The programme was developed to address the many symptoms and functional difficulties associated with cognition that can present in MS, such as memory problems, poor attention span and decision making abilities.

It focuses on the ability to maintain employment and social activities, as well as managing the home and self-care.

This new study aims to assess the efficacy and feasibility of the programme, as well as things such as barriers to using it, and outcomes.

"Past research suggests that cognitive intervention and rehabilitation can enhance daily functioning in people with MS. A lot of work has gone into the development of the COB-MS programme to ensure that it targets such cognitive activities applied in real-world settings.

"As a result, we're hopeful that the programme will benefit people living with MS on wide-ranging outcomes," explained the study's main investigator, Dr Sinéad Hynes, of NUI Galway.

If you would like to participate, or would like more information, email cobms@nuigalway.ie or call 087 449 1154.