The Other Dimension of Parkinson’s

Author

Windsor Reflections at Lakewood Ranch

Posted on

Apr 01, 2022

Book/Edition

Florida - Sarasota, Bradenton & Charlotte Counties

share-this
Share This
For more information on the author, Windsor Reflections at Lakewood Ranch, CLICK HERE!

Lets start with what most of us know about Parkinson's disease (PD). Comparatively common in older adults, its a neurological disorder estimated to affect nearly 2% of those over age 65, estimated by the National Parkinson's Foundation to be one million Americans in 2020.Public figures, such as the popular actor Michael J. Fox, who has PD, have increased the publics awareness and understanding of the disease.

Now lets consider the side of PD less talked about: Parkinson's Disease Dementia (PDD). Usually, the condition is depicted as auditory and visual hallucinations of imagined occurrences, delusion, and paranoia that follow the more visible motor dysfunction typical of Parkinson's. In fact, the dementia component of PD usually does not appear earlier than a year or more after the diagnosis. The average time from onset of Parkinson's to signs of dementia may be around ten years if certain studies are correct. The phenomenon may also be more common than most people think. That's why, to recognize April as Parkinson's Awareness Month, were focusing on the dementia phase of the disease.

Recognizing PDD
The University of California, San Francisco, Weill Institute for Neurosciences Memory and Aging Center outlines the symptoms of PDD:1


Trouble focusing, remembering things or making sound judgements
May develop depression, anxiety or irritability
May hallucinate and see people, objects or animals
Sleep disturbances


The Alzheimer's Organization states that an estimated 50 to 80 percent of those with Parkinson's eventually experience dementia as their disease progresses. There's no single test or combination of tests that can give a conclusive diagnosis of PDD, which may partly account for the wide range in the statistics. An original diagnosis of Parkinson's will be based on movement irregularity, with PDD symptoms at least a year off. This puts greater importance on working closely with a physician for an early diagnosis. Sadly, the deterioration of brain cells by PDD can't be stopped or slowed. Drug therapy can alleviate some of the symptoms.

The Difference Between Parkinson's Dementia and Others
The difference among various dementias can be confusing, and dementia should never be self-diagnosed instead of consulting with a neurology specialist. First, consult your primary physician. The International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society provides a directory of movement disorders specialists to search for a specialist in your area.

Dementia with Lewy bodies(DLB) is a spectrum of dementia-related to Parkinson's, which is also characterized by the formation of Lewy bodies, clumps of protein that form in the brain. PDD symptoms resemble DLB, which also causes changes in thinking, behavior, and movement. The difference between PDD and DLB is that with DLB behavior and cognition impairment symptoms occur first, whereas Parkinson's will present as movement impairment with dementia appearing later.2While the cause of PDD is unknown, scientists think the progression of Lewy body protein build-up first affects motor control, and eventually, enough nerve cells die that the first signs of dementia appear.

Different clumps of protein form in a brain affected by Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Another difference between Alzheimer's and similar dementia is that Parkinson's tends to affect attention and executive function more than memory .An essential and hopeful distinction: although the symptoms are similar, people with PDD are not at risk of developing Alzheimer's Disease, according to the Pacific Brain Health Center. Nor is long-term memory likely to be as affected. The characteristic loss of recognition of loved ones and a general awareness that affects Alzheimer's patients is not typical of PDD.3

Aging and Parkinson's
Johns Hopkins Medicine states: The older you are, the greater your risk of developing Parkinson disease.4The Michael J. Fox Foundation, in its downloadable brochure Navigating Cognitive Changes in Parkinson's, also notes "Cognitive changes from Parkinson's often are different or more than you'd expect with age." The example they offer is a helpful illustration of the difference between ordinary changes in memory function due to age and those caused by Parkinson's. Ordinarily, you'll forget where you left your keys, and this may become more common as you age. By contrast, forgetting what your keys are used for or how to use them signifies a more severe dysfunction related to dementia.

Caregiving at Home
People with PD may get along well with home caregiving with the help of a spouse for years. The onset of PDD can change this significantly, primarily in disrupting the ability to communicate. Be prepared that the disorientation will change a persons behavior. They may not be able to be left alone and may become moody, impulsive, and annoyed.

A few simple communication techniques are recommended for the caregiver:

Establish a daily routine. Having meals, exercise, and activities at roughly the same time every day avoids annoyance and anxiety in your loved one.
Simplify living areas. Reduce distraction and shadows.
Keep the home brightly lit.
Remain calm and empathetic. Remember, it's the disease and not a conscious decision that creates erratic behavior.
When evaluating the move to an Assisted Living or Memory Care community, consider that all the above features are incorporated into a well-designed, quality care residence.


Try to establish a gentle regimen for your loved one with PDD. It will be difficult to change old habits, and those that are not harmful might be comforting. But some boundaries may need to be set to add years of a higher quality of life. These are things to encourage the person with PDD to do:


Be socially active Engaging with friends exercises your cognitive skills, remembering names, etc.
Get involved in the community Maintain a sense of self-worth.
Exercise regularly Exercise also releases natural brain chemicals that can improve emotional well-being.
Eat a healthy, balanced diet High protein meals can benefit your brain chemistry.
Train your brain Play brain games online puzzles are great or playing cards with your caregiver.
Reduce stress
Sleep well
Take care of medical conditions Diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol
can damage your brains blood vessels and lead to
thinking and memory problems.
Check on mood and motivation.
Review your medications Certain prescriptions and over-the-counter medications can confuse some people. Consult your physician.
Drink in moderation
Don't smoke Smoking is related to Alzheimer's and other cognitive disorders.


Caregiver stress shows up on your face and in your manner in subtle ways that nonetheless are easily picked up by your loved one. Give yourself a break. Dementia will place demands on your relationship, and this is natural. You should get enough sleep and regular nutrition. Seek counseling from your specialist to help you stay on even keel.

Assisted Living, Memory Care and Nursing Homes
There are no long-term care communities exclusively for people with Parkinson's. Assisted Living and Memory Care communities are typically equipped for their particular needs because of the prevalence of the disease. There will very likely become a point where loved ones will not care for themselves in significant ways, such as getting dressed and preparing food. Dementia, of course, will further inhibit their abilities. Assisted Living is a good option for earlier PD stages. Still, the onset of dementia, which can take years, will require Memory Care for optimum therapy and assistance with daily living. It is worth considering whether an inevitable move from Assisted Living to Memory Care is desirable or if Memory Care is the best initial choice. Memory Care residences should include specific physical design to aid dementia patients in navigating to and from and within their rooms or apartments. Staff should be highly trained and compassionate. Programming should rely on the best medical practice and cognitive science. Either Assisted Living or Memory Care, or a nursing home, will provide meals, assistance with daily living routines, and emergency care. The costs and level of care among the three vary widely. Interview the residence director and health care director to assess the level and quality of care the residence can provide.

For More Information About Parkinson's:
If you or your family has questions about Parkinson's disease and Parkinson's Disease Dementia, want information about treatment, or need to find support, consult your primary care physician and contact any of the following organizations:

The American Parkinson Disease Association.
800-223-2732
apdaparkinson.org

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
800-352-9424
braininfo@ninds.nih.gov
www.ninds.nih.gov

Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research
800-708-7644
www.michaeljfox.org

Parkinson's Foundation
800-473-4636
helpline@parkinson.org
www.parkinson.org

Other Articles You May Like

The Respiratory System: Age-Related Changes & COPD

The respiratory system, like many of the other human systems (e.g., cardiovascular, digestive), is a wondrously complex and sophisticated arrangement of organs working together to maintain homeostasis.Contact an Office in Your AreaChronic obstructive pulmonary disease, more commonly referred to as COPD, is a health problem facing adults in the U.S. Because of its progressive nature and increased age as a leading factor, there is a greater prevalence of COPD in seniors. The good news is that many adults can easily reduce their risk of COPD through lifestyle management.  COPD represents a group of lung diseases, with the two most common being emphysema and chronic bronchitis.Symptoms of COPD includeConstant coughingWheezingShortness of breathCoughing up mucusTightness in the chestResearch also suggests that there may be a link between poor air quality and COPD. The American Lung Association estimates that between 80-90% of COPD cases result from smoking. Unsurprisingly, secondhand smoke is a significant risk factor as well. Seniors should take the following steps to reduce their risk of COPD:Older adults that smoke should get support from a primary care physician and take steps to quit. There are many programs, services, and products that can help.Seniors should avoid contact with secondhand smoke whenever possible.Reducing exposure to air pollution can help relieve symptoms. Many cities issue poor air quality warnings when these warnings are in effect, seniors should limit outside activities. Seniors should avoid airborne irritants (chemicals, fumes, etc.) in the home.A healthy diet and exercise plan can improve lung function and overall health with direction from a physician.Older adults should understand the impact of aging on their respiratory system and reduce their risk of any related diseases, illnesses, or conditions.Doctors may recommend getting vaccinations for both influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia to guard against further breathing complications.Comfort Keepers Can HelpComfort Keepers elevates the human spirit for todays seniors and their families through a unique, individualized approach to care that helps seniors thrive and achieve greater wellbeing by fostering everyday positive moments, connection, and a more purposeful life no matter their age or acuity. As part of a healthcare team, an in-home caregiver can assist with activities that slow disease progression or reduce the risk for those with respiratory issues. Comfort Keepers caregivers can help by supporting physician-recommended health programs, preparing meals, encouraging prescribed physical activity, reminding seniors to take medications, and providing transportation to scheduled appointments. References:Healthline. Everything You Need to Know About Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Web. 2018.Everyday Health. 5 Best Ways to Prevent COPD by Chris Iliades, MD. Web. 2018.Aging Care. An Overview of COPD by National Institutes of Health. Web. 2017.Unity Point Health. The Top 8 Respiratory Illnesses and Diseases. Web. 2014.American Lung Association. Lung Capacity and Aging. Web. 2017.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Chronic Respiratory Disease. Web. 2017.

Physical Activity for Senior Care

As seniors age, physical activities can have not only positive physical effects, but positive cognitive effects as well.Contact an Office in Your AreaIn one study, 100 nursing-home residents performed resistance exercises three times a week for 10 weeks. At the end, the exercise group could lift significantly more weight, climb more stairs, and walk faster and farther than their sedentary counterparts.Its been proven time and again that exercise is good for seniors physical and mental health. Regular exercise, even in small amounts, can improve mood, relieve stress and improve health. According to the CDC, four of the five most expensive health conditions older adults face can be prevented or managed with physical activity. But, only about 35% of adults over the age of 65 are physically active. Any senior starting a new exercise plan should consult with their physician. And, it is helpful for family and members of the care team to assist and support physical activity in any way they can. For those that are physically able to begin an exercise program, regular movement can help them live a more vibrant and healthy life. Some of the health benefits include:Improved mental health, mood and outlookPrevention, or improvement of, diseases such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and osteoporosisReduced pain from arthritis and minimizing its severityDecreased risk of fallsEach individual has different needs when it comes to exercise and varying health conditions that may need to be taken into consideration before beginning an exercise regimen. A health professional to determine the best approach to physical activity with senior care.There are a variety of ways to incorporate aerobic activity, strength-building exercises, stretching and balance all without leaving the comfort of home! Aerobic exercise  Walking in place, dancing or aerobic routines can help get the heart rate up. These activities improve cardiovascular health and help older adults maintain a healthy weight. Strength building exercises  there are many easy strength-building exercises that can help seniors build the muscles they need to do everyday activities and prevent muscle loss. And, exercises can be done with household items or using body weight, so no expensive equipment is required. Stretching  Stretching before and after exercise can help prevent soreness after exercise. And, the additional benefit is improved flexibility, which is good for older adults physical health. For those looking to improve their flexibility even more, there are exercise routines available online that include yoga or stretching routines specifically for seniors.Balance exercises  Balance exercises help seniors prevent falls and improve mobility. Yoga, tai chi, and other low-impact activities can all help improve balance and overall physical health.Those that need a little assistance getting started should not hesitate to reach out to their doctor, family or caregiver. It is never too late to adopt an active lifestyle! Comfort Keepers Can HelpFor seniors that need a little extra help living an active lifestyle, Comfort Keepers caregivers can help with encouragement, support and assistance with physician-prescribed exercise plans. And, caregivers can encourage overall health through meal planning, grocery shopping, meal preparation and activities. Our custom care plans focus on physical and mental health and wellness activities. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today. ReferencesCenters for Disease Control and Prevention. Adults Need More Physical Activity. Web. 2019.Health and Human Services. Facts & Statistics: Physical Activity. Web. 2017.National Council on Aging. Exercise Programs That Promote Senior Fitness. Web.Readers Digest Canada, 5 of the Best Exercises for Seniors to Build Strength, Improve Balance and Boost Heart Health. Web. Harvard Health Publishing. Exercise after age 70. Web. 2007.

Adapting Homes to Seniors' Changing Needs

More Americans are choosing to age in place. That is, they opt to stay in their homes rather than move to alternative retirement settings.But that often means they must modify their home, so it's not a danger to their safety and health when their physical abilities change.A new career field has risen to address this need: the Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS), a program of the National Association of Home Builders. Certified individuals assess homes to identify and recommend modifications to prevent injuries from falls and other risks.According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), one-third of Americans age 65 and over fall each year. The CDC adds that environmental factors lead to about half of all falls that occur at home. In addition to tripping hazards and poor lighting, these factors include a lack of needed modifications, such as bathroom grab bars, handicapped showers, stair railings and ramps. The organization offers a checklist to make sure an older adult's home is as safe as possible.Home modifications help seniors maintain quality of life. They often prevent injuries that lead to a loss of independence and early admission to an assisted living or long-term care facility.The following are examples of commonly recommended modifications:Install grab bars for toilets and tubs and install a walk-in tub and/or tub seatRemove unnecessary throw rugs and fasten down rugs or floor runners to prevent slippingMove furniture to create clear walking pathsKeep objects off the floor and coil or secure cords to the wall to prevent trippingReplace doorknobs with lever door handlesApply non-slip tape on uncarpeted indoor and outdoor stepsReplace standard light switches with rocker-style switchesIncrease the width of doorways and hallways to accommodate wheelchairs and, where possible, lower sinks and countertopsMove often-used items to lower cabinets to avoid the need for step stoolsRepair or replace loose handrails and install adequate lighting in stairwaysInstall an elevator or chair liftInstall an elevated dishwasher or one with drawers for easy accessReplace old stoves with induction cooktops to help prevent burnsReplace ceramic tile floors with hardwood or vinyl for safe standingShedding Light on Home ModificationWhen modifying a home for a senior, don't forget the importance of good lighting. Seniors need two to three times as much light in order to see as well as younger people.Good lighting -- in the form of natural light -- provides seniors safety and other advantages:Sunlight provides a good dose of vitamin D, which helps the body absorb more calcium to strengthen teeth and bones. Choose window treatments that let in sunlight, without glare, to enhance the health of seniors, many of who get outside less than they used to.Daylight also improves psychological health. It lessens the energy-zapping effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and other forms of depression.