Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease affects the part of the brain that controls muscle
movement. There is no cure for Parkinson’s, but it often progresses slowly
and the signs can be managed.
Signs
The 4 most common signs of Parkinson’s are:
• Tremors or shaking
• Muscle stiffness
• Slowed movement
• Problems with balance and movement
As these signs worsen, you may have trouble walking, talking, or doing
simple tasks such as bathing or dressing.
Your Care
When the signs cause you to have problems, your doctor may order
medicine or physical therapy to help manage your signs. As your signs get
worse, surgery may be an option to reduce tremors.
Things You Can Do to Manage Your Signs
• Walk slowly with a straight posture and with your legs further apart.
• Use a 4-prong cane or a walker if needed.
• If you become stuck or freeze in one place, rock gently from side to side
or pretend to step over an object on the floor.
• Place tape strips on the floor to guide you through your house. Remove
area rugs and furniture from your walking path.
• Stand up from a chair or bed slowly to avoid feeling dizzy or lightheaded.
• Install grab bars on the walls beside toilets and inside showers and
bathtubs to help you stand up.
• Use a shower chair inside the shower.
• Install an elevated toilet seat to make standing up easier after using the
toilet.
• Shave with an electric razor.
• Wear loafers or shoes with Velcro.
• Wear simple dresses or pants with elastic waistbands such as sweatpants.