High occurrence and low recognition of Parkinsonism (and possible PD) in old age homes in Bangalore, South India.
BACKGROUND
The elderly population in developing countries is likely to increase by 200-280%. Age related diseases like Parkinsonism are also likely to increase in ageing population. The prevalence and awareness of Parkinsonism (and possible PD) amongst them are unknown.


METHODS
The objective was to know the awareness and occurrence of Parkinsonism (and possible PD) in Old Age Homes in Bangalore, South India. The study design was prospective, direct clinical evaluation, and it was old age homes in Bangalore, South India setting. There were six hundred and twelve residents of the old age homes in Bangalore. A movement disorder neurologist examined 612 elderly residents living in Old age Homes in Bangalore city, India.


RESULTS
Parkinsonism was diagnosed in 109 (17.8%) of 612 residents. Possible PD was diagnosed in 9 (1.5% of 612) while in 100 (16.3% of 612) definite PD was diagnosed.94 (86.2%) had bilateral Parkinsonian signs (Stage > or = 2 of Hoehn & Yahr), only 4 (3.7%) of them or the caregivers knew they had PD.


CONCLUSIONS
Knowledge about the disease was very low in the elderly residents although the occurrence of Parkinsonism was very high. Improving awareness of PD amongst the elderly and their caregivers might reduce their disability and improve their quality of life.
Ragothaman
Mona
M
Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India.
Murgod
U A
UA
Gururaj
G
G
Louis
E D
ED
Subbakrishna
D K
DK
Muthane
U B
UB
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D006707:Homes for the Aged; D006801:Humans; D007194:India; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010300:Parkinson Disease / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000188:drug therapy; D020734:Parkinsonian Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis*