Participation in a Mindfulness Program to Improve Non-Motor Symptoms for Individuals with Parkinson’s Disease

This project aimed to address the challenge of managing non-motor symptoms in individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD) through a mindfulness-based intervention. Non-motor symptoms, including mood disturbances, cognitive impairments, and urinary issues, significantly impact the quality of life and are often overlooked in clinical practice. The mindfulness program demonstrated statistically significant reductions in UPDRS Part I scores post-intervention (t(4) = 5.31, p < .01), highlighting improvements in emotional and cognitive symptoms. NMSS data revealed Mood/Cognition and Urinary domains as key areas of concern, further emphasizing the need for targeted interventions. Participants reported enhanced mood, relaxation, and social connection, identifying these as the most valued aspects of the program. Recommendations include expanding access to mindfulness classes, offering tiered options for diverse skill levels, and integrating the program into standard Parkinson’s care. As a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) )-led initiative, this project underscores the critical role of DNPs in implementing evidence-based, patient-centered interventions to address complex healthcare challenges.