My PD mother has the most upbeat optimistic PT on the planet. Every move my mother makes she oohs and aahs over. She tells my mother over and over like a mantra that my mom is going to get better and not let anyone tell her different. My mom is doing a PT program designed for PD but it has been scaled down to the bones to accomodate my mom's advanced PD (stage ), My mom is so tickled that she's finally going to 'get better' as per her PT. From my observation the PT has helped a bit with stiffness but mom's still an invalid My question is -- is it right to tell a patient that has an incurable progressive condition that they are going to 'get better'. I mean it's good that the PT has some optimism but to me it seems like there could be something in between Dr. Sunshine & Lollipops and Dr. House. Anyone else had similar experiences?
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You mother is never going to get well. She has an incurable progressive condition. But she may get "better" in certain regards as she declines overall. It seems cruel to set up expectations that can't be met, but on the other hand if this optimism can be sustained indefinitely, what is the harm?
The PT's attitude would be perfect for my mother, whose life-long coping mechanism is denial. She would not want to hear that her condition will only get worse and it is hopeless to try to do anything (even though on one level she knows that is the truth.)
If you think the PT's approach is in some way harmful to your mother, then talk privately with the professional and share your concerns.