An Exploratory Survey of the Employment Concerns and Experiences of People With Parkinson's Disease: Implications for Rehabilitation Research, Policy, and Education

Abstract

PurposeLittle is known about the employment-related decisions made by people with Parkinson's disease (PD). This study investigated the extent to which individuals diagnosed with PD would prefer to continue working or, if currently unemployed, reenter the workforce.MethodThis quantitative survey research design consisted of a purposive sample of people with PD. A total of 80 surveys were completed and returned and, after eliminating those not meeting the inclusion criteria, 58 usable surveys were included in the final analysis.ResultsOver 82% of participants reported leaving work as a direct result of symptoms associated with PD, with the most common being inability to keep up with the physical demands (17.9%), fatigue (12.5%), psychological or cognitive issues (10.7%), and tremors (7.1%). The majority of respondents (64.3%) responded that they were moderately-to-very interested in returning to work if given the right conditions and supports.ConclusionsThe results indicated that individuals with PD would, in the right situation, prefer to reenter the workforce. Rehabilitation counselors need to be adequately equipped with information and resources to assist those with PD in determining potential employment options and ensuring that acceptable accommodations are provided. Implications for rehabilitation counseling practice, research, policy, and education are presented.