This study compared middle-aged and older adults with multiple sclerosis (N=1,275) according to their use of support groups and identified factors associated with perceived need. Over 64.6% (n=824) of participants had attended a MS support group meeting at least once. Individuals who had never attended a group were more likely to reside in urban or suburban communities, report lower symptom interference, and fewer activity limitations. Women, individuals without a helper, and people with

more »

... symptom interference were more likely to perceive a need for a support group. Findings raise questions for professionals involved in developing and implementing multiple sclerosis support groups.