Parkinson’s Awareness in Vancouver, WA

90,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease every year.

In honor of Parkinson’s Awareness Month, which takes place each April, we’re discussing what Parkinson’s disease is, where you can find support, and how we can help. Keep reading to learn more!

What is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that impacts the part of the brain that produces dopamine. It can cause nerve cell death in that area, leading to symptoms like shaking that can get worse over time. There are five stages of Parkinson’s, which are each based on levels of clinical disability caused by the disease:

• Stages 1 & 2 (Early Stages): Symptoms may not yet interfere with activities of daily living.
• Stage 3 (Mid-Stage): Symptoms progress into issues like tremors, rigidity, and loss of balance.
• Stages 4 & 5 (Advanced Stages): Symptoms at these stages are debilitating, affecting walking and standing.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease. Medications and surgery can help, though! Some drugs can increase and even mimic dopamine, and deep-brain stimulation is an option, too.

What Symptoms Are Associated With Parkinson’s?

Parkinson’s disease is associated with four primary symptoms:

• Tremors & Shaking: Shaking may begin with the hands, feet, or jaw. Tremors from Parkinson’s can cause a rhythmic back-and-forth motion. This can become more obvious with added stress.
• Rigidity & Muscle Stiffness: Those with Parkinson’s may experience resistance to movement. Muscles may be tight, causing aches and stiffness.
• Bradykinesia: This is the slowing of spontaneous and automatic movement, such as movements associated with washing and dressing. The face may become less expressive.
• Postural instability: This is associated with balance problems, which can affect posture and increase the risk of falls.

Some other Parkinson’s symptoms may include:

• Depression, anxiety, and other mental and emotional health problems.
• Difficulty chewing and swallowing.
• Changes in speech patterns and difficulty speaking.
• Bladder, bowel, and/or skin problems.
• Difficulty staying asleep at night or staying awake during the day.
• Pain and fatigue.

Age is a known risk factor for Parkinson’s disease, and the average onset occurs in a person’s mid-60’s. While the risk increases with age, there are some individuals under the age of 50 with “early-onset” Parkinson’s disease.

Where Are Parkinson’s Resources in Vancouver?

Are you looking for resources nearby? The American Parkinson Disease Association has support groups in Southwest Washington! Here’s some information about their support groups in Vancouver:

• Parkinson’s Care Partner Support Group: Meets the first Monday of each month at 11:30 a.m. at Touchmark at Fairway Village.
• Parkinson’s Support Group: Meets the fourth Monday of each month at 1:00 p.m. at Touchmark at Fairway Village.
• Parkinson’s Support Group: Meets the third Friday of each month at 1:00 p.m. at Messiah Lutheran Church.

Additionally, the Parkinson’s Foundation Pacific Northwest chapter serves the state of Washington through events and local resources. They have wellness, exercise, and support groups, as well as a helpline that you can reach at 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET.

How Can Griswold Help?

Are you looking for in-home care in Vancouver, WA? Our team of Caregivers can help! We’re proud to offer non-medical care services like respite care, overnight care, and 24-hour home care, as well as companionship, personal care, and homemaking. If you could use more information about the services we offer, please feel free to give us a call. Click the button below to contact us!