Differential psychosocial burden in parkinson's disease: a gender-based comparison.

INTRODUCTION

Apart from impacting motor functioning, Parkinson’s disease (PD) also impacts emotional and social aspects of life. Psychosocial difficulties can influence independence, relationships, and overall quality of life. Gender roles and expectations may shape how these problems are experienced.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate gender-related differences in psychosocial functioning among patients with PD using the Scales for Outcomes in Parkinson’s Disease–Psychosocial Functioning (SCOPA-PS).

METHODS

Data was analysed for patients with PD who were prospectively recruited between July 2022-September 2025 as part of the Young and Late Onset Parkinson’s Disease (YLOPD) study, funded by the SKAN Research Trust, at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, India. Psychosocial functioning was assessed using the SCOPA-PS.

RESULTS

The study included 484 patients (330 men, 154 women). Men and women were comparable in age, age at onset and duration of illness. Women had slightly higher OFF state scores. SCOPA-PS total scores were significantly higher in women. Women reported significantly greater difficulty with household chores, leisure activities, interpersonal relationships, feeling house-bound, dependence on others, and loneliness.

CONCLUSION

Women with PD exhibited significantly higher psychosocial burden compared to men. These differences likely reflect the influence of gender-related social roles, expectations, and perceived dependence. Altered psychosocial functioning in PD can significantly affect self-esteem, relationships, and adaptation to illness. Addressing these gender-specific challenges through tailored psychosocial support can improve engagement, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life in people living with PD.