Overview
Parkinson’s disease is a long-term, progressive disorder of the brain that affects movement, balance, and coordination. While tremors and stiffness are the symptoms most people recognize, the condition can also cause changes in mood, thinking, sleep, and other body functions. Symptoms tend to develop slowly, and although there’s no cure, many treatments can help people manage their day-to-day life.
Who it Affects
- Typical onset of symptoms: Around age 60
- Gender: Slightly more common in men
- Early onset: Rare; sometimes linked to inherited genetic changes
- Prevalence: About 1 in 100 people over age 60 are affected worldwide
Symptoms
Motor (movement-related)
- Slowed movement (bradykinesia)
- Tremors at rest
- Muscle stiffness or rigidity
- Short, shuffling steps or a stooped posture
- Reduced blinking or facial expression
- Softer or quieter speech
Non-Motor (may appear years earlier)
- Loss of smell
- Sleep problems
- Constipation or urinary changes
- Depression or anxiety
- Trouble with memory or concentration
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, or if you have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, please consult a qualified healthcare professional for evaluation and guidance.Memory
Causes
Parkinson’s develops when nerve cells in a part of the brain called the basal ganglia are damaged or die. These cells produce dopamine: a chemical that helps control smooth, coordinated movement. When dopamine levels drop, movement becomes slower and less controlled.
Most cases have no clear cause. About 10% are linked to genetics. Other possible contributors include environmental exposures, certain toxins, and repeated head injuries.
Diagnosis
There’s no single test for Parkinson’s. Physicians rely on medical history, symptom review, and neurological exams. Scans or blood work may be ordered to rule out other conditions. Sometimes, doctors will also see how symptoms respond to Parkinson’s medication, which can provide helpful clues. Diagnosis is a step-by-step process, and it often takes time and follow-up visits to confirm.
Treatment
While Parkinson’s can’t be cured, symptoms can often be managed in different ways:
Lifestyle approaches: Regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and mental health support can make a real difference. Staying active and socially connected often helps people manage both physical and emotional challenges. Ultimately preventing deterioration at faster rates.
Medication: Levodopa and other drugs help replace or mimic dopamine, easing symptoms like stiffness, tremors, and slowed movement. Adjusting medication over time is common, since symptoms can change.
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): For some patients, a surgically implanted device delivers mild electrical signals to targeted brain areas. This can smooth out movement and reduce medication needs. This method does not work for every Parkinson’s patient.
Therapies: Physical, occupational, and speech therapy play a big role in maintaining independence. It helps with balance, flexibility, communication, and daily routines.
Living With Alzheimer’s
The condition progresses differently for each person. Many live independently for years after diagnosis, continuing to work, exercise, and enjoy daily life. As time goes on, symptoms may change, and care needs often increase. Regular check-ins with healthcare providers, specifically primary care physicians, staying active, and having the right therapies in place can help manage these changes. Support from family, friends, and community organizations can make a meaningful difference as it may help maintain independence, dignity, and overall quality of life.
Your Role as a Caregiver
Caring for someone with Parkinson’s means more than helping with daily tasks, it’s about offering patience, encouragement, and emotional support as symptoms shift over time. Caregivers often play a key role in tracking changes, managing appointments, and advocating for the needs of their loved one. Just as important is remembering to care for yourself: building a support system, seeking respite when needed, and connecting with caregiver resources can help you stay balanced and resilient. Being a caregiver is emotionally and physically taxing, so make sure to consult with your physician with any questions you may have regarding both your loved one and yourself.