Parkinson’s Disease: During April’s National Parkinson’s Awareness Month, people are being encouraged to learn as much as they can about this disease. Do you know what causes Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a movement disorder that impacts the neurons in the brain that produce dopamine.
It also often leads to cognitive issues like dementia. There’s no cure, but therapies, lifestyle changes, and medications can help people manage the symptoms.
Check out this list of the early indicators of Parkinson’s disease. If you believe your mom or dad is at risk or maybe showing the signs, the earlier they start treatments, the better it is at helping slow the symptoms from progressing.
Handwriting Changes
One of the early indicators of Parkinson’s disease is that the handwriting changes. The letters a person writes become smaller and become cramped or crowded together. The more you write, the smaller the lettering becomes.
Insomnia
Insomnia is one of the early symptoms that can be easily overlooked. There are so many other things that can lead to insomnia, such as depression, excessive stress, and medication side effects.
Parkinson’s disease often finds people having a hard time falling and staying asleep or being woken up by jerky leg movements. If it’s a problem, your parent may also find it hard to stay awake in the daytime.
Loss of Smell
Another early warning sign is a loss of smell. It may be partial and develop so slowly that your parents don’t realize it at first. As this can also be a sign of other health issues like COVID-19 or severe allergies, it’s important to talk to a doctor about it.
Shaky Hands and Fingers
Tremors are common. They’re usually noticed in the hands and fingers first. Eventually, they may affect the face and legs, too.
There’s also a health condition known as an essential tremor that may be causing the shaking, so it’s important to talk to a doctor about it before worrying that your parents have Parkinson’s disease.
Stiffness in the Arms and Legs
The arms and legs feel stiff and incredibly tight. This can change the gait and make a person walk at a slow, stiff pace. The stiffness may only impact one side of the body. Regular exercise and movement during the day may help loosen the muscles. Warmth in a bath or with heating pads can also help.
Trouble With Coordination and Balance
The stiffness in the legs and arms can increase the fall risk. The slowed gait and stiff movements impact balance and coordination.
Arrange Supportive Care Services ASAP
When your mom or dad has Parkinson’s disease, caregivers are vital to your parent’s care plan. Your parent will need help at home with tasks like cleaning, laundry, meals, and transportation. Call a home care agency to schedule caregivers.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Homecare in Peoria, AZ, please contact the caring staff at Blessings for Seniors Companion Care at (623) 594-0819
Blessings for Seniors makes it possible for older adults to enjoy the comforts of their own home for as long as possible. We offer a customized care plan that includes services such as; Hourly Senior Home Care, 24-Hour Home Care, Dementia Care, Personal Care and Companion Care. Also ask us about our Veterans’ Home Care program.
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