An Interdisciplinary Approach to Assistive Technology for Parkinson’s Disease Dementia

Abstract

Parkinson’s Disease Dementia (PDD) and Parkinson’s Disease-Mild Cognitive Impairment (PD-MCI) are common non-motor complications that can manifest as Parkinson’s disease (PD) progresses. Cognitive impairment associated with PDD/PD-MCI can degrade patients’ functional communication, safety, independence in activities of daily living, relationships with others, and increase caregivers’ burden. Assistive Technology (AT) can help the PDD/PD-MCI population and their families to improve daily functioning, safety, and quality of life. This review highlights the breadth, functionality, effectiveness, and utilization of currently available AT in PDD and PD-MCI from an interdisciplinary rehabilitative perspective, including insights from physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech-language pathology. Some larger AT studies that were reviewed offer meaningful perspectives on realistic patient implementation; however, other AT studies had limitations including small sample sizes, insufficient focus on PDD/PD-MCI population needs, and underrepresentation of patients with cognitive deficits. Nevertheless, this review aims to serve as one of the first interdisciplinary clinical guides for determining appropriate use, timing, and individualized adaptation of AT, allowing clinicians to maximize functional outcomes in the PDD/PD-MCI population. Additional studies are required to gain a deeper understanding of practical application, training, and implementation of AT for individuals with PDD/PD-MCI from an interdisciplinary perspective.