Every nine minutes someone in our community is diagnosed with Parkinson Disease (PD). Chances are you or someone you know or love will be affected by the disease.
PD is the fastest growing neurological disorder. Since the average age at onset is 60, and the median age of our community is 65, many physicians believe we are on the cusp of an emerging pandemic. And as life expectancy increases, so does the number of people living with the disease which is expected to double in the next 15 years. It is a disease of the central nervous system that touches almost every aspect of daily living, including: movement, mood, speech, eating and drinking, sleep, and cognitive changes. It progresses over time, robbing a person of independence through increasing complications, and impacts the loved ones of people with Parkinson as well. Currently there is no objective test to diagnosis PD. Typically, a Neurologist takes a careful medical history and performs a thorough neurological examination, looking in particular for two or more of the cardinal signs to be present. Following are the 10 early warning signs of Parkinson Disease: Tremor or Shaking Small Handwriting Loss of smell Trouble Sleeping Trouble Moving or Walking Constipation A Soft or Low Voice Masked Face Dizziness or Fainting Stooped or Hunched Over
For over twenty years, The Parkinson Association of Southwest Florida (PASFI) has been improving the quality of life of persons with Parkinson and their care partners while creating a safe, nurturing and welcoming community. We advocate for our members and educate our community about PD. We nurture relationships among those involved in the care of persons with PD. We connect people to the information, support services, programs and activities they need to enhance wellness, live an active, engaged life moving forward and delay the progression of the disease. From Marco Island to southern Lee County, we offer movement classes, support groups, speech classes, social activities and educational programming for people with PD, their care partners and families. It is through the generosity of our community that we are able to provide quality programs and services free of charge. We receive no government funding to support our work. Editors Note: For more information on Parkinson Disease or to get involved please call 239-417-3465 or visit our office at 5926 Premier Way, Suite 114 Naples, Florida 34109.
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