Quality of life in early-onset Parkinson's disease: A multivariate examination of psychosocial and demographic correlates.

INTRODUCTION

Early-onset Parkinson's disease (EOPD) presents a unique and multifaceted challenge, but its psychosocial dimensions remain underexplored, limiting patient-centered interventions. Given that psychosocial factors may influence quality of life (QoL) more than motor symptoms, addressing these needs is essential.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 262 adults with EOPD through a national patient support organization between November 2022 and February 2023 to identify the demographic and psychosocial factors that contribute to quality of life.

RESULTS

Hierarchical regression analysis showed that demographic factors explained 15 % of the variance in QoL (R2 = .15), with work status (β = .30, p < .001), marital status (β = .17, p < .01), and education (β = .16, p < .05) as significant predictors. Adding psychosocial variables increased the explained variance to 62 % (ΔR2 = .47). Perceived stress (β = -.26, p < .001), years since diagnosis (β = -.64, p < .05), and loneliness (β = -.19, p < .001) were strong negative predictors, while meaningful work (β = .21, p < .01) and psychological capital (β = .43, p < .001) were key protective factors.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that while demographic factors contribute to QoL in individuals with EOPD, psychosocial determinants have a more pronounced impact.