Parkinson’s disease: coping and coexistence

Abstract Objective: To know the ways of coping when living with Parkinson’s disease. Method: The methodological framework used was the Grounded Theory. Thirty people diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease registered at the Parkinson Santa Catarina Association, SC, Brazil. participated in the in-depth interview. After the data coding process, five people with the disease validated the findings. Data collection took place between September 2013 to April 2014. Results: The categories that emerged were: Share activities with people with Parkinson’s disease; Have family support; Seek healthy living: activities for self-esteem and quality of life. Discussion: The study highlights the importance of family company in promoting patient stability and self-esteem, where family support helps in coping with the health condition. Conclusion: It was possible to know the ways of coping to live with the disease, especially in sharing experiences with peers; family support, leisure activities, and lifestyle changes; Such characteristics are pertinent to the health care of people with neurodegenerative diseases.