What should an occupational therapist do if a patient with Parkinson's disease shows low energy and reports difficulty with home activities?

When working with a patient who has Parkinson's disease and is experiencing low energy and difficulty with home activities, conducting an interview and administering a standardized depression scale is essential for understanding the patient's psychological state. Individuals with Parkinson's are at a high risk for depression due to the nature of the disease, which can affect both movement and mood. Low energy levels may not solely be attributed to physical limitations; they can also be symptoms of depression, which is common in this population.

By assessing the patient's emotional well-being, the occupational therapist can determine whether psychological factors contribute to their reported difficulties. If depression is identified, it opens the door to addressing these concerns through appropriate interventions, which could include referrals to mental health professionals, adjustments in therapy focus, or strategies to enhance motivation and engagement in home activities.

This approach emphasizes the importance of a holistic evaluation in occupational therapy, where understanding the patient's mental health can significantly influence their overall treatment plan and daily functioning.