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April marks National Parkinsonās Disease Awareness Month in the United States. This month, Americanās are encouraged to #take6forPD – a nod to the fact that someone will be diagnosed with Parkinsonās Disease every 6 minutes. During this month of awareness, people are encouraged to educate themselves about the disease, speak to their doctor about risk factors, and consider a donation to Parkinsonās research.
Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disorder that affects approximately 10 million people worldwide, according to the Parkinson’s Foundation. This disease is caused by a loss of changes in brain function, leading to a wide range of symptoms that can impact a person’s movement, mood, and cognition. Parkinson’s disease is a chronic and progressive condition that currently has no cure, but there are treatments available to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Symptoms of Parkinsonās disease general impact motor movements which makes it difficult for impacted people to perform basic daily tasks. The most common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include tremors, stiffness, and slowness of movement. Non-motor functions can also be possible with some experiencing symptoms such as depression, anxiety, constipation, and sleep disturbances.
The exact cause of Parkinson’s disease is not yet known, but multiple risk factors have been identified including advanced age, genetics, environmental factors, and exposure to certain toxins.
There is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, but many treatments exist to help better manage the condition. Several popular medications are approved and available which have been shown to have a major impact on motor function issues. A generally healthy lifestyle also can greatly improve quality of life for those battling the disease. Regular exercise has been shown to help improve motor issues and reduce fall risk. A healthy diet may also play an important role for some. Occupational and physical therapy is also an important treatment for Parkinsonās. These therapies can help to improve mobility, reduce stiffness, and improve communication skills.
While Parkinson’s disease can be a challenging and progressive condition, there are many resources available to help people with Parkinson’s disease manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Support groups, online communities, and educational resources can provide valuable information and emotional support to people with Parkinson’s disease and their caregivers.
Learn more about how Provision Livingās Encircle program promotes healthy living and helps seniors achieve better health outcomes. Contact a community near you today to schedule a visit.
