Abstract
Activity demands for individuals with Parkinson’s disease are not well understood. This study aimed to expand knowledge on less-understood activity demands to guide clinicians in their clinical practice.
Primary Author and Speaker: Laura McCray
Additional Authors and Speakers: Kara Lee, Kayleigh Nolan, Jacob Greenfield
Contributing Authors: Laura McCray, Kara Lee, Kayleigh Nolan, Jacob Greenfield
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is highly individualistic in nature. There is limited information available regarding the link between activity demands and the individual’s cognitive or physical fatigue. This study explores perceived fatigue and actual fatigue across individuals with various stages of PD. A mixed-methods design was used to collect data regarding the cognitive and physiological perceptions of fatigue and activity demands. Participants were recruited from a community interprofessional group targeting those with Parkinson’s disease (PD), with inclusion criteria being a diagnosis of PD, regardless of stage, and attendance of at least two sessions. A mixed methods study design was utilized to capture physiological responses to any given activity. Instrumentation utilized included the perceived exertion scale (BORG), heart rate monitors, and structured interviews. Then, collected data was analyzed through either reflexive thematic or inferential analysis. Across all participants, OT and music therapy’s physical based activities produced the largest change in heart rate. Cognitive-based activities did not show a change in heart rate. BORG ratings did not correlate with changes in heart rate based on activity level. Two themes were identified as factors contributing to fluctuating fatigue levels: tiring daily events and caregiver support. Results indicate a disconnect between heart rate and perceived fatigue between individuals and between different activities. Individuals perceive fatigue differently regardless of physiological responses to activity. Occupational therapy practitioners should be mindful of tailoring interventions to meet one’s specific needs. Utilizing a multi-faceted approach to evaluate activity responses can help identify and maximize the use of the just-right challenge to promote health, quality of life, and well-being.
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