Occupational Therapy & Assessment for Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease is a condition affecting the central nervous system. Common symptoms are tremors, trembling, postural instability, stiff limbs and a lack of balance or coordination. As the symptoms worsen, patients may have problems with the normal activities of everyday living. Occupational therapists can help patients manage their symptoms and lead more fulfilling lives. Occupational therapists also play an important role in managing Parkinson's disease by providing ongoing assessment of the patient's condition.

Research Findings

• Does occupational therapy make a difference for patients with Parkinson's disease? Previous studies were small and inconclusive, but recent research indicates that occupational therapy plays an important role, and has encouraged further studies. In 2009, researchers publised a study of 39 patients and evaluated their improvement with a number of outcome measures designed to gauge the ability of patients participate in the activities of daily living, their mobility and depression. Patients who received occupational therapy demonstrated improvement through improved scores. The researchers concluded that occupational therapy was beneficial and that a larger trial should be conducted.

Assessment

• Parkinson's disease is considered both chronic and progressive. This means that there is no cure for the disease and the patient will continue to worsen. As symptoms worsen, occupational therapists play an important role in monitoring changes, making recommendations for changes in therapy activities, and implementing different adaptive techniques, equipment and training. Assessment may also include psychological evaluation of cognitive problems associated with Parkinson's, such as stress or depression as well as dementia. Occupational therapists can administer assessment questionnaires, such as those mentioned above, to measure outcomes. An occupational therapist may recommend modifications to the patient's home so that remaining at home is a viable option for a longer period of time.

Occupational Therapy

• Stiffness and rigidity is common with Parkinson's disease. Occupational therapy helps patients retain the greatest range of motion for the longest time possible. It can also help improve coordination and dexterity, common problems for patients who have developed postural instability. With occupational therapy, Parkinson's patients can perform essential daily living tasks for themselves, such as using the telephone, getting dressed and eating, for a longer period of time.