Self-management support programs for persons with Parkinson's disease: An integrative review

Abstract

Objective: To identify the characteristics of self-management programs for persons with Parkinson's disease and the evidence for their effectiveness.

Methods: An integrative literature review was conducted. Studies describing the provision or outcomes of self-management interventions for persons with Parkinson's disease and published in English were included. Two reviewers independently screened and evaluated articles. Interventions were described and compared, and evidence was presented using The Traffic Lighting system.

Results: Eighteen interventions were identified, representing a variety of group- and individual-based interventions that differed in structure, components, and outcomes. Notably, 89% were designed specifically for persons with Parkinson's disease and 39% combined self-management support with other therapies. Evidence to support specific self-management programs for persons with Parkinson's disease was limited. However, a moderate quality systematic review and a good quality RCT supported self-management for improving specific domains of quality of life.

Conclusions: A variety of interventions have been designed to support self-management by persons with Parkinson's disease. More research is needed to identify key active ingredients and determine which programs are most effective.

Practice implications: Self-management programs embedded within rehabilitation are promising. Clinicians should ensure programs include goal setting and problem solving and consider the inclusion of caregivers and peer support.

Keywords: Parkinson’s disease; Self-management.