Social support within couples coping with Parkinson's disease

Abstract

Objectives To contribute to a better understanding of the complexities of social support exchanged within couples coping with Parkinson's disease (PD), the present study aimed to identify costs and complications of support between persons with PD (PWPs) and their partners, as well as how to effectively manage such challenges. Methods In-depth interviews were conducted with 63 participants, including 31 PWPs and 32 partners. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using constant comparative techniques. Results Participants reported the following complications and costs of social support: partners’ differing approaches to coping can make support difficult, support can be perceived as identity-threatening and controlling, support can lead to dependency, and support can be draining. In addition, participants discussed effectively managing challenges of support by seeking/providing support subtly, taking the other's perspective, and relinquishing control. Discussion In health care and interventions, it is important for PWPs and partners to be educated about social support so that couples can anticipate these costs and complications of support and consider which management strategies are likely to be effective for them in various circumstances.