Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 26, 2026

Community-based Adapted Tango Dancing for Individuals with Parkinson's Disease and Older Adults
Published on: December 9, 2014
Healthcare Utilization Patterns of Persons Living with Parkinson's Disease and Related Disorders with Moderate to
Sana Aslam1, Roman Ayele2,3, Michelle Fullard1
1Department of Neurology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA.
Background:
Healthcare utilization among individuals with Parkinson's disease and related disorders (PDRD) with significant palliative care (PC) needs is not well characterized.
Objectives:
To describe healthcare utilization in a well-defined cohort of PDRD patients with moderate-to-high PC needs.
Methods:
We conducted a secondary analysis of a multi-site randomized trial of outpatient PC. Participants reported healthcare utilization every six weeks over 12 months. Outcomes included emergency department (ED) visits, overnight hospitalizations, in-home medical services, and psychosocial or spiritual support.
Results:
Among 210 patients (mean age 70.1 years; 64% male), the annualized ED visit rate was 1.16 per person-year (95% CI 0.94-1.42) and the hospitalization rate was 0.48 per person-year (95% CI 0.33-0.69). Among 136 participants with complete follow-up, 43.4% had ≥1 ED visit and 21.3% had ≥1 hospitalization. Home-based services were used by 38.1%.
Conclusions:
Utilization rates exceeded those reported in broader PD populations but were lower than in dementia. Persistent home-based care needs highlight ongoing supportive care demands.
Related Concept Videos
Parkinson's Disease: Treatment
Parkinson's Disease is primarily a result of the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. The cornerstone of...
Parkinson's Disease: Overview
Documentation in Long-Term and Home Healthcare Setting
Long-Term Care Facilities
Continuing Care
Parkinson Disease l: Introduction
Parkinson Disease ll: Pathophysiology

