Perception of symptoms, current needs, and barriers of service delivery for individuals with Parkinson disease and their families

Abstract

Parkinson disease (PD) is a progressive degenerative neurogenic disorder associated with a variety of symptoms and affecting multiple modalities of an individual's functioning. A systematic examination of current perception of symptoms, different met and unmet needs, and barriers of healthcare related services for people with PD and their families can allow healthcare professionals to design more effective education, awareness, and management programs for the PD community. Therefore, the current study focused on examining perceptions of different PD-related symptoms among individuals with PD and communication partners (including spouses and family members) living in the Midwest region of the United States. Additionally, the study examined the current met and unmet needs, as well as existing barriers to healthcare services for individuals with PD and their communication partners living in these regions. Findings indicated that both participants with PD and communication partners reported motor symptoms more frequently when compared to nonmotor and communication symptoms. Specific to unmet needs and barriers of service delivery, both groups reported need for specialized services and educational resources related to PD symptoms in their communities. Overall, findings from the study will help create more effective service delivery programs for individuals with PD and their families.