Why are support groups important? Who can benefit from them?
Social isolation is associated with Increased severity of symptoms and lower reported quality of life, however many PD symptoms and perceived stigmas can further exacerbate social Isolation (Fothergill-Misbah et al., 2022). Individuals who participate In self-help/support groups report Improved quality of life, as measured by Improved emotioanl well-being, Improved cognition and communication, Improved bodily discomfort and mobility, Improvement In activities of daily living, and Improved perceived stigmas (Marco-Kuscera et al., 2018). Individuals who participate In mindfulness groups demonstrated Improvements In depression and memory and a slowing In cognitive decline (Reitano et al., 2023).
Both persons with Parkinson's disease and their caretakers can benefit from participation in support groups. Individuals and caregivers who attend support groups report feeling more at home, feeling more prepared, understanding the diagnosis more, and report better mental and medical support (Fothergill-Misbah et al., 2022; Chen et al, 2022).
