Depending upon your age of onset, how you manage the symptoms, and your general health, you can live an active life with Parkinson's. In most cases, one's life is not shortened. However, as you age and as the disease progresses, there will be increased risks. For example, impaired balance can lead to pneumonia. Parkinson's is known as a chronic (long term) condition that will require ongoing monitoring and management to maintain one's quality of life.
Each person with Parkinson's is unique and each person may experience different symptoms. However, since Parkinson's is a progressive condition, symptoms will worsen over time and new ones may appear. It is difficult to estimate how quickly or slowly Parkinson's will progress in each person. It may progress more quickly in people who are older when the symptoms first begin. Parkinson's may progress less quickly when the main symptoms is tremor, especially when it starts on one side.
What approach can I take?
Learn as much as you can about Parkinson's. Your local Parkinson Society has many resources to help you manage the condition.
Reducing stress in your life will make a difference. Join a Parkinson support group. Some people find yoga and tai chi helpful. Humor can also be a great stress reducer. Staying as active as possible and maintaining a positive attitude is important. Many people find that a creative activity such as painting, singing, playing an instrument, dancing or writing poetry helps. Even if Parkinson's affects your balance, you can still have a balanced life!
What do I need to know to plan my life?
Take a stock of your life and communicate with those who are close to you (care partner, family, friends).
Work options. Discuss options with your employer, such as adaptive technology or reduced work load. If it becomes necessary, find out if retiring early is an option. Many people who reduce their workloads find they are able to focus on managing their Parkinson's (e.g. more time to keep physically fit).
Finances. Will your benefit/medical plan cover drugs and other expenses, such as speech therapy? Do you have a retirement and/or pension plan? Do you qualify for disability insurance or the disability tax credit? Contact disability professionals before reducing your work hours to determine if this will affect the amount of eligible funding.
Legal and health planning issues. Discuss power of attorney and advance care planning with your family now. Discuss what quality of life means for you. By talking about these issues now, you can impact your care in the future (*Information on advance care planning varies from province to province. Contact your local Parkinson Society for appropriate resources).
Care issues. Seek the care of a neurologist or movement disorder specialist. Together you can develop a care plan that will meet your needs. Monitor your symptoms and communicate any changes so adjustments to medications can be made.
Personal choices. As Parkinson's progresses, you will be faces with making choices about your life. Symptoms and medications can affect your ability to drive safely. Knowing this may happen and planning for it can make the decision easier. You may choose to stop driving.
Are you newly diagnosed?
The Parkinson's journey will be different for everyone. To help you stay the course, think about what is important to you. Some things to consider may include:
- How you will manage your Parkinson's symptons
- How you will minimize the side effects of medications
- How you will maintain your emotional well-being
- How to ensure you continue your work or hobbies
- How you will maintain relationships with family and friends
- How you will maintain your independence
Whatever you choose, maintaining your quality of life on a daily basis is important.
Where can I find information?
Contact your regional Parkinson Society or visit www.parkinson.ca.
April is Parkinson's Awareness month. Parkinson Society Canada salutes the everyday heroes who demonstrate extraordinary hope.
By: Grace Ferrari, Parkinson Expert at Agecomfort.org Health Care Resource Centre
Photot Credit: Tim Parkinson
No comments:
Post a Comment