LIVING WITH PARKINSON’S

The diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease marks the beginning of a long journey, but the right guidance, knowledge and care will help to make the path simpler to walk. Every person’s experiences with Parkinson’s are unique. Symptoms, and the way the disease unfolds, vary from person to person.

Parkinson’s causes a wide variety of symptoms and effects, which can impact many aspects of daily life. Living well while coping with Parkinson’s involves understanding these impacts and developing strategies to minimize their effects.

This section is a guide to help you live a better, healthier and productive life with Parkinson’s.

ADVANCED STAGE PARKINSON’S

Not everyone reaches the advanced stage in Parkinson’s disease. Sometimes people with
Parkinson’s (PwPs) can remain at one stage for years. However some PwPs’ symptoms may progress and there may come a time when the symptoms become more profound and severe, and the medication may not be as effective in controlling the symptoms as before.

MIDDLE STAGE PARKINSON’S

The progressive nature of Parkinson’s disease may cause the symptoms to increase in severity and affect balance, walking patterns, speech quality and interfere with your daily activities such as eating, dressing, writing and others. Mild to moderate cognitive decline may occur and alter your attention and decision making during everyday tasks.

EARLY STAGE PARKINSON’S

During the early stages of Parkinson’s disease, symptoms may be mild, which generally do not interfere with activities. There may be a slight tremor and other movement-related symptoms on one side of the body with slight changes in speech, posture and walking, along with depression, slowness of thought and loss of smell.