Parkinsonism Relat Disord. 2011 Nov 23. [Epub ahead of print]
Soulas T, Sultan S, Gurruchaga JM, Palfi S, Fénelon G.
BACKGROUND:
Deep
brain stimulation improves motor function and quality of life in
patients with Parkinson's disease. The impact of these changes on
patients' spouses is largely unknown.
METHODS:
Twenty-six
spouses of patients undergoing surgery were evaluated before and 12
months after surgery, using the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey for
quality of life, the Beck Depression Inventory, and the Zarit Burden
Inventory.
RESULTS:
The spouses' mean mood and quality
of life scores changed little, while burden improved in younger
spouses. There was no significant change in the spouses' overall
status. However, at the individual level the effect of surgery was more
frequently negative than positive. Changes in psychological status and
quality of life in the spouses did not correlate with changes in the
patients' motor status or quality of life.
CONCLUSIONS:
Spouses'
experience of neurostimulation for Parkinson's disease is variable and
complex. The improvement in burden experienced by younger spouses may
reflect a greater capacity to cope with new situations.
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