Managing and Understanding Parkinson’s Disease

When a loved one is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, the shock of it can be a terrifying experience for the whole family, putting everyone involved through an emotional rollercoaster. The diagnosis can produce fear, anxiety, depression, and other negative emotions in family members. Some may even feel guilty about not having recognized the situation sooner, while others may feel relief at finally understanding the disease and being able to identify and recognize their loved one’s behavior.

Unfortunately currently there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, but the treatments are more advanced than ever, and the symptoms are becoming more manageable. Today, there are more tools and professional support available today than ever. But to best help a loved one with Parkinson’s, first it is necessary to understand the disease, symptoms, and options for treatment.

Parkinson’s is usually classified under the umbrella of dementia, along with other age-related disorders that affect the brain. However, the disease has a specific set of symptoms and classifications that differentiate it from other forms of dementia. Parkinson’s is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects predominantly dopamine-producing neurons in a specific area of the brain called the substantia nigra. Essentially, Parkinson’s disease affects the portion of the brain that controls dopamine. Dopamine is a chemical that carries information between neurons, which can affect learning, emotion, memory, physical movement, and even addiction.

The cause of Parkinson’s disease is currently unknown, but there are many factors that contribute to the ultimate diagnosis. The disease primarily affects individuals over 60 years of age, which means that age is a primary factor for the disease. The disease affects men more often than women, for reasons that doctors are currently unsure of. As with many things, genetics play a part, with research suggesting that certain people may be genetically predisposed to early onset Parkinson’s. This seems to suggest that Parkinson’s may run in families.

Lifestyle is another factor in Parkinson’s, with individuals who have been exposed to certain chemicals for long periods of time at a higher risk than others. Serious head injuries can also put individuals at higher risk of developing the disease later in life.

Parkinson’s manifests in several ways. Some of the signs and symptoms associated with the disease include shaking, difficulty walking, stiffness, balance and coordination issues, falls, mood swings, changes in sleeping patterns, difficulty speaking, memory issues, low energy, difficulty with swallowing, urinary problems, and changes in blood pressure. In the beginning stages of the disease, symptoms tend to be mild, growing more severe over time. The initial symptoms may be so mild as to not be noticed or attributed to the aging process. This is why receiving the diagnosis can come as such a shock to families.

Every person will experience Parkinson’s differently and require different treatments. During the early stages, it is common for medications to be prescribed, and in addition to that, regular exercise has been shown to improve the quality of life for people suffering from Parkinson’s. Exercise may even help to slow the progression of the disease somewhat.

At Senior Helpers of Gilbert & Chandler, we understand how challenging it can be to manage Parkinson’s disease for both your loved one and your family. That’s why we offer specialized Parkinson’s Care, with a team of caregivers trained to provide the tailored support your family needs. From assisting with daily activities to ensuring proper medication management, we’re here to help make life a little easier. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us support you and your loved one through every step of the journey. We’re committed to improving quality of life with compassion and care!