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Parkinson's and the couple relationship: A qualitative meta-synthesis

Research output: Contribution to Journal/MagazineReview articlepeer-review

Published
<mark>Journal publication date</mark>30/06/2023
<mark>Journal</mark>Aging and Mental Health
Number of pages10
Pages (from-to)1-10
Publication StatusPublished
Early online date24/06/23
<mark>Original language</mark>English

Abstract

The aim was to synthesise the current qualitative literature on the impact of Parkinson's on the couple relationship, including individual and dyad studies. Noblit and Hare's meta-ethnography approach was applied; 19 studies were included in the review following a systematic search of four electronic databases. The studies included experiences of 137 People with Parkinson's and 191 partners. Analysis produced three themes: (1) Disruption of roles and responsibilities; (2) Challenges to communication and closeness; and (3) Grief, burden, and isolation. The themes are discussed with supporting extracts from the 19 included studies. The findings highlight the challenges that couples experience and the individual and relational resources that support coping. Support should be individually tailored to each couple as the impact on the couple may change in response to individual and contextual factors. This review adds further evidence to the case for relationally focused multidisciplinary team input at all stages of Parkinson's disease.