April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month; according to The Parkinson’s Foundation, approximately 60,000 American’s are diagnosed with PD each year. Parkinson’s Awareness Month is designed to raise awareness and provide information to those unfamiliar with the disease and its effects.
What is Parkinson’s?
Nearly one million people in the US are living with Parkinson’s, but what exactly is it? Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disease that affects dopamine-producing neurons in specific brain areas. In layman’s terms, the disease slowly damages the central nervous system. Symptoms of PD can develop slowly over several years and are often different from one person to another. People with PD may experience tremors in their hands, slowness of movement, limb rigidity, and balance or gate problems. The cause of PD is unknown, and while there are some treatment options available, there is currently no cure. Those with the disease can sustain a productive lifestyle when using their resources and staying active in the PD community. It is important to note that living a quality life will depend on how individuals understand and plan to manage their symptoms.
Find out about the Early Signs of Parkinson’s Disease here
Lifestyle Suggestions
As previously mentioned, there are no standard treatments for Parkinson’s because not everyone’s symptoms are the same. Doctors may suggest medications or surgical therapy as well as making lifestyle changes. Lifestyle changes recommended by outpatient therapists include:
- Meet with others that have PD to discuss and learn more about the disease
- Schedule regular exercise to help with movement and cognitive function
- Participation in a singing group or class to help improve voice and communication
- Learn to cook or try new healthy recipes
- Plant a small indoor garden that’s easy to manage
- Complete crossword, puzzles, card games, or word searcher to help exercise your brain
- If you can’t visit friends or family in person, try to make phone calls or video calls to them regularly
It is always important to consult your physician before making any significant changes.
PD Community
The most agreed-upon lifestyle change is to get involved in the Parkinson’s community. Find others that understand what you’re going through and get support. The community is passionate about providing help to those living with this disease. They host events, offer news updates, have support groups, blogs, and many other resources. Whether it’s you or someone you love, don’t go through it alone. The Parkinson’s community offers a variety of services to help you live a full life.
Giving Support
Our Owner, Dave is fundraising for the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) through the Virtual Optimism Walk for Parkinson’s on May 22nd. Dave will be walking for his godfather, joining many in the community striving to make a difference. To participate and make a donation to this great cause please CLICK HERE TO DONATE.
Need some encouragement?
- Every 9 minutes someone is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
- Funds raised enable the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) to continue providing local education, information, and support to those touched by Parkinson’s disease in our community and fund scientific research into the causes, prevention, treatments and ultimately the cure.
- The more funds we raise, the more people we can help!
Home Care Services
If you or someone you know needs assistance with daily living, please reach out to us by calling or filling out the form below. We can provide the compassionate and dependable home care that will help you remain safely at home.
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