Parkinson’s Disease
On this page: Signs and Symptoms, How VCI Mobility Can Help, Resources
Parkinson’s disease is a brain disorder which occurs when neurons (nerve cells) in the brain become impaired or cease to exist. Normally, these nerve cells produce a vital chemical known as dopamine. Dopamine regulates the normal, coordinated function of the body’s muscles and movement. When approximately 80% of the dopamine-producing cells are damaged, the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease appear.
Signs and Symptoms
- Tremors and shaking
- Slowness of movement
- Rigidity or stiffness
- Difficulty with balance
Other signs of Parkinson’s disease may include:
- Lack of muscle control
- Small, cramped handwriting
- Stiff facial expressions
- Shuffling walk
- Muffled speech
- Depression
Parkinson’s disease affects both men and women in almost equal numbers and shows no social, ethnic, economic or geographic boundaries. In the United States, it is estimated that 60,000 new cases are diagnosed each year, joining the 1 million Americans who currently have Parkinson’s disease. While the condition typically develops after the age of 65, 15% of those diagnosed are under 50.
The process of making a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis can be difficult. There is no X-ray or blood test that can confirm Parkinson’s disease. A physician arrives at the diagnosis only after a thorough examination. Blood tests and brain scans known as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be performed to rule out other conditions that have similar symptoms.
There are a number of effective medicines that help to ease the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. The medicines most commonly used will attempt to either replace or mimic dopamine, which improves the tremor, rigidity and slowness associated with Parkinson’s disease. Several new medicines are being studied that may slow the progression. Many promise to improve the lives of people with Parkinson’s disease.
Surgery can ease the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, but it is not a cure. Due to the risks associated with brain surgery, it is usually not considered unless all appropriate medications have been tried unsuccessfully.
As Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive, degenerative disease, an individual’s mobility needs may change during their life. Currently, there are no rules/regulations regarding individuals with Parkinson’s Disease and whether they can or can not drive. However, individuals affected with the illness should consult with their physician with regard to whether it is in their best interest to do so.
How VCI Mobility Can Help
For individuals who are able to drive, VCI Mobility can assist with either adaptive driving aids or accessible vehicles. For individuals who will only be a passenger in a vehicle, our Mobility Consultants can introduce products such as assistive seating, which can help make transitioning into or out of a vehicle much safer, easier and more comfortable.