About 40% of people with Parkinson's (PWP) have apathy as a symptom, and it increases with greater disease severity. This loss of interest and enthusiasm in daily activities in PWP may interfere with doing the exercise that can slow the disease's progression, result in unhealthy food choices leading to fatigue or result in social isolation. Apathy can often be confused with depression, but an easy way to separate the two is to remember depression is a mood disorder and apathy is a motivation disorder. Understanding that apathy in PWP is not laziness goes a long way in overcoming this anchor. Unfortunately, there are currently no proven medications or specific therapies to treat apathy -- there ARE things that have proven helpful. Some of the key ways to beat apathy, such as exercise, social connection, setting goals, and staying consistent, are great starting points but getting unstuck is the key to successfully defeating apathy. The SMARTPD Program has developed a Neurofeedback protocol based on this science-based target for re-wiring the brain to beat apathy.
Allowing you to see your own brain activity and learn control over your brain's motivational centers can lead you to a more productive, healthier life. Think of Neurofeedback as your computerized coach to boost motivation. Joining the SMARTPD program provides you with the tools to help restore your motivation to exercise, pick healthier foods and stay connected with your family and friends so you can finally break out of the apathy cycle.
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