Individuals with locked-in syndrome experience satisfaction from life

New findings show that at least half of all individuals who have locked-in syndrome — a condition that causes severe paralysis — explain to be experiencing satisfaction in life. However, just under 10 percent of patients from the study frequently have suicidal thoughts.

For the study, researchers analyzed 65 people who have developed locked-in syndrome, discovering that less than 20 individuals explained life to be ‘somewhat bad’ or worse.

Additionally, 17 people explained they were feeling at least almost as well as they did before developing locked-in syndrome. And, 21 people explained life quality to be less than before, but still expressed positive thoughts.

Researchers explain this study to provide insight for those who have newly developed locked-in syndrome, as many seek euthanasia. However, most people who become ‘locked-in’ notice happy feelings returning after some time.

The syndrome causes almost complete paralysis, except most patients still maintain use of their eyes. Most patients learn to communicate using blinking.

Survivability for the condition, when stable, is greater than 10 years, and some patients experience the ability to move their hands and arms again. Others explain they can speak words and short sentences, but in most cases, locked-in syndrome results in complete dependence from a caregiver.