Profile of Independence in Activities of Daily Living Among Patients With Parkinson’s Disease: A Retrospective Observational Study

Dependence in ADL domains differs by PD stage, with direct implications for occupational therapy intervention. Plain-Language Summary: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor symptoms and nonmotor symptoms. The disease progression can gradually affect activities of daily living (ADLs), which can lead to decreased independence and quality of life as well as increased caregiver distress. This study evaluated the ADL independence and dependence of patients with PD based on each patient's disease stage. The study found that ADL dependence differs based on the PD stage (mild, moderate, severe), with direct implications for occupational therapy intervention. Occupational therapists can design interventions to improve and maintain the occupational performance of people with PD. Interventions that target ADLs should be based on the patient's PD stage.