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 PALS is a ten-week program designed to develop skills to improve the quality of life for people who have lost a limb. The program was developed and evaluated by researchers at the Johns Hopkins University and University of Washington in collaboration with the Amputee Coalition of America in 2005 and 2006.
The PALS course is designed to take place in a group setting with people working together to learn and practice self-management skills such as problem solving. The PALS program recognizes that persons who have lost a limb have a lot to teach each other and builds on each individual’s strengths. A nationwide study of PALS was funded by a grant from the National Center on Birth Defects and Development Disabilities of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (NCBDDD/CDC). Results indicated that amputees who completed the PALS course were much less likely to have depressed mood, in contrast to those in the comparison group who attended regular support group meetings. Further, PALS participants were also less likely to report being bothered by their problems with function. PALS participants experienced increased confidence in their ability to manage problems related to limb loss, including pain. People with confidence in their abilities are more likely to persevere toward a goal until they achieve success. If you are interested in learning more about PALS or offering a PALS course in your area, please contact Susan Tipton of the Amputee Coalition of America at 888-AMP-KNOW (888-267-5669) or at stipton@amputee-coalition.org. |
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