Interaction between executive functions and physical functions in people with parkinson's disease

Objective: We aimed to investigate the interaction between executive functions and physical functions in individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD). Method: Thirty-three patients diagnosed with PD and 33 healthy controls were included in the study. PD group was divided into two subgroups as having high executive function (n=17) and low executive function (n=16). In the study, the severity of motor symptoms, disease severity, executive function, global cognitive function, reaction time, functional capacity, postural control, physical activity, balance confidence, hand function, depression and anxiety levels were assesed. Results: PD group reported poorer physical function and higher executive function compare to healty controls (p<0.05). Parkinson patients with impaired executive function were reported poorer physical and cognitive function than Parkinson patients with good executive functions (p<0.05). There was a significant relationship between executive function and physical function in the individuals with PD (r>0.5, p<0.05). Conclusion: Executive problems were related with the physical and cognitive function in individuals with PD. Adding exercises to increase cognitive and psysical performance in rehabilitation programs in addition to routine exercises can contribute to existing physical condition in people with PD.