Volunteers needed for Parkinson's research

Saturday, 17 July 1999

Public help is desperately being sought for a new, ground-breaking study of the emotional and personality changes caused by Parkinson's Disease.

Parkinson's Disease is well known in the community as a degenerative brain disorder which affects about one in every 100 people over the age of 50.

It can cause a wide range of physical and psychological symptoms which result in a great deal of distress, not only for sufferers but also for their families and caregivers.

Very little is known about the emotional and personality changes that occur with Parkinson's Disease - but according to University of Adelaide psychology researcher Dr Jane Mathias, many families and caregivers believe these changes can be the most distressing aspect of the disorder.

Dr Mathias is conducting a study to learn more about these changes. The information gathered could lead to the better understanding and treatment of Parkinson's Disease sufferers.

People with Parkinson's Disease and healthy people of a similar age will be assessed in order to compare the emotional functioning of each group. Volunteers are now desperately needed for the research.

"Those who participate will be asked to complete a brief assessment which is designed to tap into different aspects of your emotional and cognitive functioning," Dr Mathias says.

"None of the tasks are harmful, and they will not cause distress or discomfort. Results will, of course, be treated confidentially."

Anyone between 50 and 70 years of age who is interested in becoming involved in the project should contact Dr Mathias on (08) 8303 5266 or Joan Wiskin on (08) 8303 5693.

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