Combined Effects of Depression, Fatigue and Cardiovascular Dysfunction on Functional Dependence Over Seven Years in...

Parkinson's disease (PD) is associated with both motor and non-motor symptoms, which collectively impact activities of daily living (ADLs) and contribute to the loss of functional independence. There is a lack of understanding of how non-motor symptoms drive this loss in independence.

This study aims to firstly implement a milestone-based approach to determine the time-points at which subjects with PD require help with specific tasks, using current gold-standard scales. Secondly, we aimed to explore the influence of motor and non-motor symptoms on the progression of functional dependence in individuals with early-stage PD over a 7-year period.

Using data from 166 PD participants, obtained from the Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI), we determined the time taken to reach the first functional dependence "event" over 7 years of annual visits, using clinician- and patient-reported outcomes, including the Schwab & England ADL scale and the MDS-UPDRS Parts I and II. To determine the effect of non-motor symptoms on functional dependence, linear mixed modelling was employed, adjusting for key motor variables, medication, age, sex and PD duration.

Depression, fatigue, and motor impairment emerged as significant influencers of functional dependence, with cardiovascular dysfunction nearing significance.

We identified that, over time, both motor and non-motor symptoms contributed to the decline in functional independence, with depression, fatigue and cardiovascular dysfunction playing a particularly prominent role. These findings highlight the importance of a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to PD management, addressing both motor and non-motor symptoms to improve long-term outcomes and quality of life.