The medical, social, and functional profile of Parkinson's disease patients

The study looked at the medical, social, and functional aspects of 34 patients with idiopathic Parkinson's Disease (PD). Eighty-five percent were above 55 years and 35% were over 70 years. Twenty-four (71%) were males. Most patients had Stage II disease. Overall functional state of the patient correlated closely with the stage of Parkinson's disease. Patients were likely to be dependent if their disease severity was stage III or more. Eighteen (53%) patients would require a carer to be present at least part of the day and 3 (9%) patients would require a carer most of the time. Domestic chores such as meal preparation, housework, and shopping were also affected in most of those who were previously active in these tasks. Ten patients had given up work due to their Parkinson's disease. The lack of knowledge of the disease was shown both in the carers and the patients. Twenty-nine of the patients had no knowledge of the disease, and only one carer had superficial knowledge of the disease. The major social problems associated with the disease were loss of social contact, behavioural problems, family members under strain and communication problems within the family. Since Parkinson's Disease is a chronic illness, with associated disabilities, it is important that the physician should aim for a multidisciplinary approach. Patient and carer education should be given emphasis, and the many everyday functional problems addressed. Advice on life-style management and aids to overcome disabilities may help improve quality of life of the patient and reduce carer's stress.