Living with moderate-stage Parkinson disease: intervention needs and preferences of elderly couples

The purpose of this study was to identify the principal intervention needs of elderly couples living with moderate-stage Parkinson disease and their preferences regarding the modalities of a possible nursing intervention. The study's framework of reference consisted of the transitions theory developed by Meleis, Sawyer, Im, Hilfinger Messias, and Schumacher (2000) and of the systemic approach developed by Wright and Leahey (2009). A qualitative design and a participative process were employed. Ten couples were interviewed dyadically. Intra- and interdyad content analyses were performed. Results indicate that the principal intervention needs of couples are geared to developing effective strategies for remaining healthy and planning for the future, to improving communication between spouses and with the formal and informal support networks, and to adopting concerted strategies to facilitate problem solving and role adjustment. Couples would prefer six or seven dyadic meetings, each 60-90 minutes long, every 2 weeks, at an easily accessible location. This study affords avenues for the conceptualization of a psychoeducational nursing intervention intended for couples where a spouse has moderate-stage Parkinson disease.