Case studies of food shopping, cooking and eating habits in older women with Parkinson's disease

Aims. The principal aim of this study was to investigate how married and si ngle-living older women diagnosed with Parkinson's disease managed to shop for food, cook and carry out their meals; and to observe whether their nutr itional needs were satisfied. A secondary aim was to identify women with se vere motor problems and describe their food-related situation. Background. Parkinson's disease is associated with motor and eating problem s, which, combined with age-related declines in physical functioning, may a ffect activities of daily living and dietary intake. Methods. Qualitative interviews and food survey were carried out in the hom es of 10 women aged 67-80 years. The sample was recruited from outpatient r egisters. Results. Decreased sense of smell, appetite and taste in combination with p roblems transporting food to the mouth and swallowing were risks for nutrit ional well-being. Food shopping was most difficult to manage, but six cooke d even if their cooking style was changed. Married women with healthy husba nds received support from their spouses. Single-living women suffering from motor problems had to call for help, which represented a threat to their w ell-being. Independence was given high priority. Conclusions. The whole situation - including psychosocial and stress factor s - must be taken into account when discussing shopping, cooking and eating among old women with Parkinson's disease. A home-helper should not take ov er but facilitate procedures so that the woman can manage as long as possib le. This gave them self-esteem.