There seems to be an increased presence of Parkinson’s disease, today, particularly with the elderly.
What Is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, balance, and coordination. It develops when certain nerve cells in the brain, those that produce dopamine begin to die.
Dopamine is a chemical messenger that helps your body perform smooth and controlled movements. Without enough of it, movement becomes slower, stiffer, and less coordinated.
Why Does It Happen?
The exact cause of Parkinson’s disease is still not fully understood. However, research suggests several factors may be involved:
- Age: Most people are diagnosed after age 60.
- Genetics: Certain inherited genes may increase the risk.
- Environmental exposure: Long-term contact with pesticides or toxins could contribute.
- Brain changes: The buildup of abnormal proteins, called Lewy bodies, is a hallmark of Parkinson’s.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Parkinson’s symptoms tend to develop slowly over time and fall into two main categories:
Motor (movement) symptoms:
- Tremor or shaking (often starting in one hand or arm)
- Slowed movement (bradykinesia)
- Muscle stiffness (rigidity)
- Trouble with balance and posture
Non-motor symptoms:
- Sleep disturbances
- Constipation
- Loss of smell
- Depression or anxiety
- Changes in memory or thinking in later stages
The Stages of Parkinson’s
Although symptoms vary, Parkinson’s often follows a gradual progression:
- Mild: Tremors or stiffness affect one side of the body; daily life is largely unaffected.
- Moderate: Symptoms spread to both sides; movements become slower.
- Advanced: Significant mobility challenges and increased non-motor symptoms.
How Parkinson’s Is Diagnosed
There’s no single test for Parkinson’s disease. Diagnosis is based on:
- Medical history and symptom review
- Neurological examination
- Ruling out other conditions
In some cases, brain imaging like MRI or DaTscan may help confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment Options
While there’s no cure yet, treatments can greatly improve quality of life:
- Medication: The most common is levodopa, which your brain converts into dopamine. Other drugs can mimic dopamine or help it last longer in the body.
- Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): A surgical procedure that uses implanted electrodes to help control movement.
- Therapy: Physical, occupational, and speech therapy to maintain mobility, independence, and communication skills.
- Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise and a balanced diet can make a big difference in symptom control.
Living With Parkinson’s
- Parkinson’s itself is not usually fatal, but complications such as falls, swallowing difficulties, or pneumonia can shorten life expectancy. Many people live for decades after diagnosis, especially with early treatment and strong support systems.
Parkinson’s disease can be challenging, but with the right combination of medical care, lifestyle adjustments, and emotional support, many people continue to lead active, fulfilling lives.
For real estate agents, it will be important to ensure that someone suffering from Parkinson’s still retains sufficient mental capacity.
Brian Madigan LL.B., Broker
www.OntarioRealEstateSource.com