OBJECTIVES: We conducted a series of focus group interviews among individuals with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) to understand their experiences, healthcare needs, and potential patient-centered approaches to treat depression and fatigue, which are two of the most common non-motor symptoms of PD.

METHODS: Convenience sampling was used to recruit participants into three focus group interviews. We conducted these focus group interviews among adults aged ≥ 18 years with PD, residing in one of the Southwest states of United States, and who were members of the Parkinson & Movement Disorder Alliance (a non-profit organization) The focus group interviews were conducted at three different locations (lasted from 1 to 2 hours), and were held between 17-July-2018 and 20-July-2018. Informed consent and demographic information were collected from the participants prior to the start of the interviews. Participants were asked a series of open-ended questions regarding their experiences, healthcare needs, and potential patient-centered approaches to treat depression and fatigue. Interviews were audio-recorded, and de-identified content was transcribed verbatim and translated for thematic analysis using ATLAS.ti for descriptive, topic and analytical coding and post-coding.

RESULTS: There were a total of 19 participants (72.22% male, mean age=72.61±7.89 years) included in the three focus group interviews. Five themes emerged for the participants’ experiences with depression and fatigue: Sleeping disorders; Non-socially active; Emotional incontinence; Communication problem; and Ineffective medication. Three healthcare needs themes emerged: Local community support; Research; and Information. Finally, three themes emerged for potential patient-centered approaches to treat depression and fatigue: Recreational activity; Medications; and Social activity.

CONCLUSIONS: Based on this qualitative analysis, individuals with PD experience several different problems related to depression and fatigue. Future interventions such as increased local support and PD-specific recreational activities can help reduce the burden of depression and fatigue in this vulnerable population.