Execution of Activites of Daily Living in Persons with Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease that disrupts the functionality and quality of life in persons affected by the disease. Motor symptoms associated with PD include resting tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia, diminished postural stability and decreased muscular strength [3]. The combination of aging, degenerative effects of the disease, and reduced physical activity often manifest in reductions in stability, increased variability in force production and deficits in torque generation. These muscular deficits have been shown to be contributors to the bradykinesia frequently observed in this population. Muscular weakness and the subsequent movement difficulties associated with PD often manifest into increased inability to perform activities of daily living (ADL) and an increased risk for falls.