Devices to assist Parkinson's patients with activities of daily living

Abstract

Parkinson's Disease (PD) is the most prevalent motor disorder in the world, affecting approximately 1% of the population aged greater than 60 years old. It causes difficulty with daily hygiene, gait, movements, eating, and swallowing. Detecting PD early allows for better care and the ability to implement the usage of assistive devices (ADs). Finding cost effective, evidence-based devices for the improvement of patient's mobility, hygiene, and eating can make independence possible. The purpose of this literature review is to help educate primary care providers on which assistive devices can be helpful for patients with PD to provide them with more autonomy and independence. There are many devices that can decrease falls and provide patients the ability to walk. Other tools can be utilized for patients to eat and drink without their tremor causing a mess. Even basic necessities, such as using hygiene products, can be difficult without proper ADs. Some devices can be simple, like a walker, while other are more advanced. As technology advances, ADs can actually help to slow the progression of PD. PD makes living difficult, but with the help of certain ADs, patients still have the chance to live a healthy, independent life.