Factors related to dependencies among older patients with Parkinson’s disease

Background: Parkinson's disease have physical decline as a result of the disease's relentless progression, which may cause them to lose the ability to perform activity daily living. This study aimed to explore some factors related to ADL and IADL dependencies among older people with Parkinson’s disease. Methods: This cross-sectional study conducted on 190 older patients who were diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease were being examined and treated at the National Geriatric Hospital from March to October 2023. Activities of Daily Living (ADL) was assessed using the Katz Index, Instrumental activities daily living (IADL) was assessed using the Lawton IADL. Results: The rates of ADL and IADL dependence were 51.1% and 61.1%, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed independent factors associated with an increased risk of ADL dependence were: stage of Parkinson’s disease 3-5 (OR 3.47), Parkinson’s disease duration (OR 1.10), symptom of rigidity (OR 2.96), cognitive impairment (OR 5.18) and upper limb strength impairment (OR 2.83). Some factors independently associated with an increased risk of IADL dependence were: osteoporosis (OR 11.25), stage of Parkinson 3-5 (OR 5.44), Parkinson’s disease duration (OR 1.13), cognitive impairment (OR 3.74) and upper limb strength impairment (OR 4.54). Conclusions: Independent factors were associated with ADL/IADL dependencies were stage of Parkinson’s disease 3-5, Parkinson’s disease duration, cognitive impairment and upper limb strength impairment among older patients with Parkinson disease