OCCUPATIONAL PARTICIPATION IN NEURODEGENERATIVE DISORDERS: PARKINSON’S DISEASE, MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS, AND RELATED CONDITIONS

Abstract

Neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s Disease (PD), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), and related conditions significantly disrupt occupational participation across self-care, productivity, and leisure. Progressive motor, cognitive, emotional, and sensory impairments interact with environmental and personal factors to limit engagement in meaningful life activities. This chapter examines occupational participation in neurodegenerative disorders using occupational therapy and disability frameworks. Disease-specific participation challenges, psychosocial influences, and evidence-based occupational therapy interventions are discussed. Tables and a conceptual diagram are included to enhance understanding of participation patterns, intervention strategies, and person–environment–occupation interactions.