Unveiling the invisible: a qualitative interview study on the impact of young onset Parkinson’s disease on (ex-)partners
This week, our YOPD series brings forth the issue of the impact that YOPD has upon the psychosocial factors of the individual and the people in their lives. Whereas most studies have focused on the impact of living with PD on caregivers at advanced middle and older ages, the younger caregiver has a unique set of challenges. This particular study examines the impact of PD on partners (and ex-partners) in 9 different areas; (1) Psychosocial impact, (2) Impact on taking care of children, (3) Impact on working life, (4) Impact on intimacy and (sexual) relationships, (5) Impact on daily life, (6) Acceptance and other coping strategies, (7) Thoughts about the future, (8) Autonomy and (9) Caregiver support. A better understanding of these issues will help develop realistic interventions to improve support for younger (ex-)partners of people with YOPD.
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