Parkinson’s disease is often referred to as an “older person’s disease” since it is most commonly diagnosed in adults over the age of 60. Only 4% of all cases are detected before the age of 50. After Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease is the most prevalent age-related nerve degeneration condition. 1% and 5% of the population over the age of 60 and 85 respectively have Parkinson’s disease. Age is hence the most significant risk factor for Parkinson’s disease. Here are some of the symptoms and treatments for Parkinson’s disease in aged adults.

The Causes of Parkinson’s

The causes of Parkinson’s disease are still undergoing research and debate with no conclusive explanation in sight. However, studies have discovered many factors contributing to the disease’s symptoms. Currently, most research is centered around the presence of the protein α-synuclein in Lewy bodies, distinctive neuronal inclusions found in certain regions of the brain that are thought to be one of the primary causes of Parkinson’s disease. An early study of Parkinson’s disease discovered that the prevalence of Lewy bodies rises with age. More recent research has linked α-synuclein as a prominent component of Lewy bodies and as being responsible for accelerated cell death and dysfunction in the early stages of Parkinson’s disease. Despite significant progress in the hunt for new effective therapies for Parkinson’s disease, individuals with this condition continue to struggle and typically do so in long-term care settings.

Symptoms in Aged Adults

Here are some symptoms, both impairing motor and non-motor function, that occur in aged adults with Parkinson’s disease, including:

Slowness of movement
Sleep disturbances
Dizziness and vertigo
Tremor of the face, hands, arms, or legs
Orthostatic hypotension
Bradykinesia (gradual loss of spontaneous movement)
Lack of coordination
Constipation and nausea
Rigidity of the limbs and trunk
Impaired balance
Impaired memory or thinking
Increased salivation and sweating
Changes in vision
Depression
Anxiety
Difficulties with urination
Reduced sense of smell

Treatments

At present, there is no treatment that can cure or delay Parkinson’s disease’s progression, but the symptoms can usually be effectively managed with treatment methods. Levodopa therapy is the best choice of treatment for aged adults with Parkinson’s disease that allow improves mood and bradykinesia. There is also surgery and deep brain stimulation, although both methods are not suitable for every individual with Parkinson’s disease. For Parkinson’s disease treatment in aged adults, the main goal is to keep the patient active and improve their quality of life. It is difficult to rehabilitate patients with Parkinson’s disease who have become sedentary as a result of their condition. Discovery Village At Naples offers Skilled Nursing programs for aged adults with Parkinson’s disease, offering round-the-clock support and care.

Live a Fulfilling Life with Discovery Village At Naples

Here at Discovery Village At Naples, we prioritize the health and wellness of our residents by offering excellent amenities and lifestyle programs for everyone regardless of their specific needs and preferences. Your loved one is sure to find the senior living option and type of care they require, enabling them to lead enriching and fulfilling lifestyles. If you would like to find out more about our senior living community, our team will be more than happy to schedule a tour and answer any questions you may have.