OPTIM PARK 1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Optim Park 1: Personal networks and community resources and the process of living with Parkinson’s
IRAS ID
265184
Contact name
Mari Carmen Portillo
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Southampton
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 7 months, 7 days
Research summary
From previous research we know that living with Parkinson’s Disease depends on several factors including the acceptance of diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease, management of symptoms and social support for the person with the condition. Through this project we aim to map on a diagram (using a method called concentric circles) what are the lay and professional community resources and systems of support that people with Parkinson’s Disease use or have available to them in the community. We will also explore ways these resources can be better utilized, and to discuss their personal social preferences. This project aims to gain a deep understanding of these resources and systems of support for people living with Parkinson’s Disease in the community and healthcare professionals, and discuss strategies that could approximate interests of all stakeholders and professionals. This will constitute a starting point to develop and implement a transformative framework that incorporates dialogue between sectors and levels of care for better living with Parkinson’s Disease.
We plan to look at knowledge and attitudes towards resources in the community of people with Parkinson’s Disease and healthcare professionals, with a special interest in those living in less advantaged circumstances, such as older people living alone or in less accessible areas. We will map the social support available on circle diagrams (demonstrating varying levels of value of this support) in one-to-one interviews with approximately 10 people with Parkinson’s Disease and 10 healthcare professionals. We will also undertake Focus Groups (n=2) with each of these stakeholder groups. Focus Groups will go over concepts raised in interviews and develop further understanding of priorities and tensions between different stakeholder groups.REC name
South West - Cornwall & Plymouth Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
19/SW/0132
Date of REC Opinion
25 Sep 2019
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion