Parkinson’s disease is a complex disorder that changes over time.
Roughly one million Americans are living with Parkinson’s, which occurs when brain cells that produce the chemical dopamine die off. Eventually, falling dopamine levels impair the brain’s ability to control movement, speech, cognition, and balance. Symptoms get worse over time, and there is no cure, though therapies are available to reduce some symptoms.
The right care team can help patients and their families better manage the disease, according to the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation.
Ideally, the team should include:
A movement disorders specialist or neurologist, equipped with additional training in treating conditions such as Parkinson’s, plays a pivotal role in overseeing comprehensive treatment plans. This includes prescribing medications and conducting tests to monitor the progression of the disease.
For speech-related challenges in the middle stages of Parkinson’s, a speech-language pathologist becomes crucial. They address issues like low speech volume through targeted voice exercises. Additionally, they assist in managing swallowing difficulties that often manifest in Parkinson’s patients.
To address the physical complexities that emerge over time, such as involuntary muscle movements, balance problems, and muscle weakness, a physical therapist can develop tailored regimens to alleviate these challenges.
Occupational therapists contribute by redesigning home or work environments, recommending adaptive equipment, and teaching new strategies to facilitate daily tasks for individuals with Parkinson’s.
A social worker provides counseling services to help individuals with Parkinson’s and their families cope with the associated stress and depression. They also connect families to relevant state and federal assistance programs, aiding with financial support for care, medication, or adaptive equipment.
