Sleep's Impact on Parkinson's Care Partners

*Disclaimer: This webinar was funded by AbbVie. All content was designed and delivered by
PD Avengers. AbbVie has no input into the content or creation of this material.
Larry Gifford, President of Pd. Avengers, host
Rebecca Gifford, Care Partner
Brian Magennis, A Parkinson's nurse and care partner from Ireland
Okeanis Vaou, a movement disorder specialist and board-certified sleep specialist
Larry emphasized the importance of a good night's sleep for care partners and those living with chronic conditions. He highlighted the role of sleep in brain health and overall well-being, and the potential negative effects of insufficient sleep on brain plasticity and waste removal.
The discussion with the three guests was focused on the findings of the PD Avengers' Sleep survey, which aimed to provide insights into sleep challenges faced by care partners.
Sleep and Parkinson's Disease Impact
Larry initiated a discussion on the impact of sleep deprivation on individuals with Parkinson's disease and their care partners. Dr. Okeanis highlighted that up to 90% of Parkinson's patients have at least one sleep disorder, which can worsen motor symptoms and affect the quality of life. She emphasized the importance of addressing sleep issues for both patients and care partners. Brian from a healthcare perspective added that good sleep hygiene, such as maintaining a comfortable environment and avoiding excessive liquids before bedtime, can help improve sleep quality. He also stressed the importance of considering the patient's motor function and safety when addressing sleep issues.
Sleep Issues in Parkinson's Disease
In the meeting, Brian discussed the importance of maintaining a good sleep routine for individuals with Parkinson's disease, highlighting the potential for daytime exercise to affect nighttime sleep. He also emphasized the need for care partners to raise concerns about sleep issues with physicians and clinicians.
Larry then introduced a new screen discussing the impact of Parkinson's on relationships and intimacy, with Rebecca sharing her personal experience of sleep disruptions affecting her relationship with her husband. Dr. Vaou confirmed that these issues are common among her patients and that treating the underlying conditions, such as REM behavior disorder, can often improve sleep quality and relationships. The conversation ended with a discussion on the prevalence of sleep disturbances among people with Parkinson's disease.
Managing Parkinson's Nighttime Symptoms
Larry, Brian, Rebecca and Dr. Vaou discussed strategies for managing nighttime symptoms and disruptions in Parkinson's patients. They highlighted the importance of addressing motor symptoms such as tremors, dyskinesia, and bradykinesia, as well as non-motor symptoms like vivid dreams, nightmares, and sleep apnea. They suggested using medications to control bladder behavior and reduce fluid intake, and recommended tips like using silky sheets, bed levers, and night lights to improve sleep quality.
They also emphasized the need to treat pain, which can be a symptom of Parkinson's and an indication of low medication levels. The team agreed that addressing sleep hygiene, including avoiding activities like watching TV or reading in bed, and discussing sleep issues with clinicians, is crucial for improving sleep quality. They also noted the importance of considering non-motor symptoms like profuse sweating, which can be a sign of medication wearing off.
Navigating Parkinson's Care and Isolation
Larry, Rebecca, and Brian discussed the challenges of being care partners for individuals with Parkinson's disease. They highlighted the stigma and misperceptions associated with sleeping in separate rooms, and the importance of connecting with other care partners for support. Brian shared his mother's experience with a care partner support group, emphasizing the psychological benefits and reduced anxiety it provided. The group also acknowledged the isolation and loneliness that often accompany caregiving roles, and the need for self-care activities.
Larry concluded by emphasizing the significance of sleep for overall well-being and the ability to provide care.
Full Sleep Survey Results are available www.pdavengers.com/sleepsurvey