Experiences Of Informal Caregivers Of Persons With Parkinson’s Disease (PD) In Punjab, Pakistan: A Qualitative Approach

Abstract

Background: Patients has lost control over limbs which resulted in losing mobility to do actions as result to which they are completely dependent on their caretakers. Such condition of dependency has made caretakers socially inactive, fatigued and incapacitated. Their suffering is equal to the patient. As every caretaker narrates that feel him/herself as a patient. People with Parkinson’s disease need a full time care-giver to provide care on daily basis. The purpose of this study is to explore the impact of Parkinson’s disease on patients and their caregivers regarding their socio-economic aspects along with physical and psychological issues.

Materials and Methods: Qualitative data was obtained through survey from ten (N=10) caretakers of Parkinson’s disease patients through In-depth interviews using purposive sampling with help of Interview guide containing research related questions. Thematic analysis was applied to analyze the data.

Results: Findings showed that caregivers of Parkinson’s disease clearly affecting from continuous stress and tough routine while serving their patient. Sufferings of caregivers are multiple in nature which are tempering them socially, psychologically and also economically as well.

Conclusion: Parkinson disease has paralyzed not only the patients but also their caretakers. As a result there is not only one patient but Parkinson has paralyzed two individuals from each family and one associated member who further takes care of the caretaker. Such condition of dependency has made caretakers socially inactive, fatigued and paralyzed. Their suffering is equal to the patient.