Exploring the Impact of Parkinson's Disease on Marital Relationships

Background/Objectives: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects both motor and non-motor functioning, leading to increasing dependency and long-term psychosocial consequences. As the disease progresses, partners often assume caregiving roles, resulting in shifts in responsibilities, communication patterns, and emotional dynamics within marital relationships. The aim of this study was therefore to explore the impact of Parkinson's disease on marital relationships. Methods: A qualitative interview study with a retrospective design was conducted. Six couples were recruited through a movement disorders clinic and a lay organization in Sweden. Semi-structured, face-to-face interviews were conducted separately with each partner. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using conventional content analysis with an inductive design. Results: Four main themes emerged: managing the disease together in partnership, nurturing the relationship, facing marital hardship, and planning an uncertain future. Couples who adopted a positive and pragmatic outlook, shared responsibilities, and maintained open communication seemed to be better able to manage the disease. Engaging in joint activities and reciprocal communication strengthened emotional closeness. In contrast, changes in roles, emotional distress, loss of intimacy, and communication avoidance challenged relationships. Thinking about the future evoked feelings of ambivalence, as couples balanced uncertainty with a need for security. Conclusions: Parkinson's disease affects marital relationships, reshaping roles, emotional bonds, and future perspectives. The ability of nurses to address both partners' needs and promote communication and shared coping strategies is essential to strengthening couples' well-being.