The Key to Parkinson's Disease
April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month. The Parkinson’s Foundation engages the Parkinson’s community at this time of year and encourages education for prevention and early diagnosis, as well as the sharing of tips and resources that help make life better for people with Parkinson’s.
It’s estimated that 60,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) each year and one million Americans are currently living with this neuro-degenerative disease. Commonly known for its movement or motor-related symptoms, people with PD are often more impacted by non-motor symptoms like apathy, depression, sleep behavior disorders, loss of sense of smell and cognitive impairment.
Every day people in our PD community face obstacles — some anticipated, others new. This month, the Parkinson’s Foundation wants folks to share their “key” to living well with PD. Whether you are living with PD, or are a caregiver for a loved one, share your tips — no topic is off limits. The hope is that others can replicate those tips and make their life just a little easier. Share your #KeyToPD tips at www.Parkinson.org.
Here are the Foundation’s top five keys to living a better life with Parkinson’s:
- Find a neurologist. Regular neurologist care can save the lives of thousands of people each year. Neurologist care saves about 4,600 lives each year in the U.S. alone.
- Get Answers. Call our 1-800-4PD-INFO (473-4636) Helpline or visit Parkinson.org to get your Parkinson's questions answered — at any stage of PD.
- Put together a care team. People living with PD who seek expert care have better outcomes — complication risks are lower, they enjoy better quality and longer lives.
- Establish an exercise routine. Increasing physical activity to at least 2.5 hours a week can slow decline in quality of life for people with PD.
- Get moving and socialize. Meet others with PD and families living in your area at your nearest Moving Day, A Walk for Parkinson's. Register at www.MovingDayWalk.org.
Visit Parkinson.org/Awareness to learn more. Unlock your customized #KeyToPD resources by heading to www.Parkinson.org/Keys.
Contact Us: There is no cure for Parkinson’s but the disease must be well managed to maintain quality of life. Caregiver and companion care services are proven to have a tangible benefit for those with PD. From encouraging exercise and managing meds and meals, to assisting with fall risk and transportation, a caregiver or companion makes a difference in the daily life of the client. Home care also relieves some of the stressors on the family and provides peace of mind. Visiting Angels specially trains our caregivers who assist those clients with Parkinson's - it takes a special person with patience and perseverance to meet their special needs. We can custom tailor a program for your preferences, personality and your pocketbook!
Till next time!
Irv Seldin, JD
Owner and CEO of Visiting Angels of the Palm Beaches
This article is not intended as medical advice.