Parkinson\u2019s disease is a movement disorder that affects each person differently. It is a devastating illness that is very complex in nature. In some cases, the disease progresses very rapidly, while in others, the full progression may take more than 20 years. There are many symptoms associated with Parkinson\u2019s disease, as well as five stages. Understanding this disease can be difficult, so elderly care providers who care for clients with Parkinson\u2019s disease may want to read on and learn more about this frustrating disorder.<\/p>\n
Symptoms and Complications<\/p>\n
Those who suffer from Parkinson\u2019 disease may experience a wide range of complications or just a few minor symptoms, but none are considered fatal. These symptoms and complications may include the following:<\/p>\n
\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Slow movement\/inability to move<\/p>\n
\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Rigid limbs<\/p>\n
\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Tremors\/trembling<\/p>\n
\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Slumped posture<\/p>\n
\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Inability to chew or swallow properly<\/p>\n
\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Excessive sweating<\/p>\n
\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Sleep problems<\/p>\n
\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Speech impairments<\/p>\n
\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Skin problems<\/p>\n
\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Constipation<\/p>\n
\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Incontinence or other urinary problems<\/p>\n
\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Changes in emotions, such as depression<\/p>\n
Stages<\/p>\n
Parkinson\u2019s disease progresses in five stages, ranging from mild to severe.<\/p>\n
\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Stage 1: Mild symptoms that, while may be inconvenient, are not disabling. Symptoms may start out as a tremor in one limb or the symptoms may be limited to one side only. This initial stage is also characterized by changes in facial expressions, movement and posture.<\/p>\n
\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Stage 2: As sufferers progress to the second stage of Parkinson\u2019s disease, they will notice their gait become more affected. Symptoms will typically affect both sides of the body. While they won\u2019t cause disability, they will affect daily activities to some degree.<\/p>\n
\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Stage 3: Body movements tend to slow down in Stage 3, with some degree of imbalance noticeable when standing or walking. As an elder care provider, you might notice your client experiencing a moderate degree of dysfunction throughout his or her body.<\/p>\n
\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Stage 4: By Stage 4, the symptoms become severe in nature. Tremors may decrease, but the person may not be able to walk much, as muscles become rigid. The person can no longer live alone and requires help with daily activities. As an elder care provider, you might notice having to help your client do more and more basic activities due to a loss of movement.<\/p>\n
\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Stage 5: This is the most severe stage of Parkinson\u2019s disease. As this point, the person starts wasting away, losing significant amounts of weight and muscle mass. The person can no longer walk at all and is considered an invalid. He or she requires around the clock care.<\/p>\n