Parkinson’s
About Parkinson's
Parkinson's disease is a condition in which parts of the brain become progressively damaged over many years.
The 3 main symptoms of Parkinson's disease are:
- involuntary shaking of particular parts of the body (tremor)
- slow movement
- stiff and inflexible muscles
A person with Parkinson's disease can also experience a wide range of other physical and psychological symptoms.
These include:
- depression and anxiety
- balance problems (this may increase the chances of a fall)
- loss of sense of smell (anosmia)
- problems sleeping (insomnia)
- memory problems
It's thought around 1 in 500 people are affected by Parkinson's disease. Most people with Parkinson's start to develop symptoms when they're over 50, although around 1 in 20 people with the condition first experience symptoms when they're under 40. Men are slightly more likely to get Parkinson's disease than women.
Supporting someone with Parkinson's
When caring for someone with Parkinsons, some important things to consider are:
- Medication Management: Ensure medications are taken on time and as prescribed. This can help manage symptoms more effectively.
- Physical Activity: Encourage regular exercise, which can improve mobility, balance, and overall well-being.
- Diet and Nutrition: A balanced diet can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Some people with Parkinson's may have difficulty swallowing, so meal preparation might need adjustments.
Useful contacts and information
Parkinson's UK
Parkinson's UK is a charity dedicated to supporting people affected by Parkinson's disease. They provide information, support, and advice to those living with the condition, fund research to find better treatments and a cure, and raise awareness about Parkinson's to improve understanding and care.
NHS: Parkinson's
