In 1817, James Parkinson first described a clinical syndrome he referred to as "a shaking palsy" (Jankovic, 2008). Since then clinicians, researchers, caregivers and clients have devoted their lives to better understanding the unique and complex disorder. This website
has been created to summarize existing knowledge of occupational therapy assessment,
treatment and management of Parkinson’s Disease. It is in no way exhaustive as
the research base is forever increasing.
Parkinson's Disease is a progressive neurological disorder which affects 1 in 100 people over the age of 65. It is characterized by cell death of dopamine containing cells in the substantia nigra, a structure in the midbrain (Gaudet, 2002). Everyday function is affected by a variable combination of motor and non-motor features (Jankovic, 2008).
Parkinson's Disease is a progressive neurological disorder which affects 1 in 100 people over the age of 65. It is characterized by cell death of dopamine containing cells in the substantia nigra, a structure in the midbrain (Gaudet, 2002). Everyday function is affected by a variable combination of motor and non-motor features (Jankovic, 2008).
This website includes information on:
Cardinal Features
Occupational Performance Issues
Assessment
Treatment and
Practice Resources