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Experiences of Living With the Nonmotor Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease: A Photovoice Study

Smith, Laura J., Callis, Jerri, Bridger‐Smart, Shannon, Guilfoyle, Olivia (2024) Experiences of Living With the Nonmotor Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease: A Photovoice Study. Health Expectations, 27 (3). Article Number e14124. ISSN 1369-6513. E-ISSN 1369-7625. (doi:10.1111/hex.14124) (KAR id:106425)

Abstract

Background: Nonmotor symptoms (NMSs) are frequently experienced by people with Parkinson's disease (PD) and are often perceived as their most bothersome symptoms. However, these remain poorly understood with suboptimal clinical management. These unmet needs are an important determinant of health‐related quality of life (QoL) in PD.

Objective: The aim of this study was to gain insights into the experience of living with the NMS of PD in real‐time using participatory action methodology. Method: Using the photovoice method, 14 people with PD took photographs to document their experiences of living with the NMS of PD. They composed corresponding written narratives to capture the impact of NMS on their daily activities and QoL. In total, 152 photographs and corresponding narratives were analysed using thematic analysis with an inductive approach.

Results: Four interrelated themes were identified. Emotional well‐being and sense of self encompassed a process of adjustment to living with PD. Engaging in valued activities, adopting a positive mindset and utilising coping strategies were thought to enhance confidence and self‐esteem. Social support and societal awareness highlighted the importance of supportive relationships and socialising to aid participation and avoid isolation. Barriers to social engagement included the unpredictability of NMS and nonvisible NMS being neglected or misunderstood.

Conclusion: Findings demonstrated the far‐reaching impact of nonmotor aspects of PD on emotional, occupational and social dimensions. These needs could be addressed through person‐centred and comprehensive approaches to care.

Patient or Public Contribution: This study utilised a participatory research approach allowing participants to choose the subjects that mattered to them and how to present their results. Additionally, a group workshop was held with people with PD, their family members and healthcare professionals to guide theme development.

Item Type: Article
DOI/Identification number: 10.1111/hex.14124
Uncontrolled keywords: Parkinson's disease, photovoice, nonmotor symptoms, participatory action, quality of life, activities of daily living
Subjects: B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion
B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Divisions: Divisions > Division of Human and Social Sciences > School of Psychology
Funders: University of Kent (https://ror.org/00xkeyj56)
SWORD Depositor: JISC Publications Router
Depositing User: JISC Publications Router
Date Deposited: 26 Jun 2024 11:06 UTC
Last Modified: 10 Jul 2024 14:08 UTC
Resource URI: https://kar.kent.ac.uk/id/eprint/106425 (The current URI for this page, for reference purposes)

University of Kent Author Information

Smith, Laura J..

Creator's ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3275-1530
CReDIT Contributor Roles:

Bridger‐Smart, Shannon.

Creator's ORCID:
CReDIT Contributor Roles:

Guilfoyle, Olivia.

Creator's ORCID:
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