Identifying Signs and Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease

Did you know that a Portland native struggles with Parkinson’s disease and is also a Paralympic rower? Todd Vogt was diagnosed with Young-Onset Parkinson’s disease right before his 44th birthday and has come a long way since becoming an alternate on the U.S. Paralympic Team for 2021. Todd’s story inspires others struggling with Parkinson's disease and encourages them to continue pursuing their dreams.

Parkinson’s is a progressive condition, which means your loved one’s care needs will change as the disease advances. At first, you may just need some assistance with running errands, but that might evolve to include assistance with personal care and activities of daily living.

It can be challenging for family members to adapt and adjust when their loved one is diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Looking out for critical signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s can help family members modify their care plan or find an in-home caregiver to assist their loved ones.

There are many early signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s. Including:

• Constipation
• Trouble moving or walking (stiffness in body parts, feet “stuck to floor”)
• Loss of smell
• Tremor (slight shaking in finger, thumb, hand, or chin)
• Small handwriting (letter sizes are smaller, crowded words together)
• Trouble sleeping (thrashing around in bed or acting out dreams)

Some signs of Parkinson’s can be side effects due to medications, exercise, or sickness. If the symptoms persist for more than a week or are a combination of symptoms, these irregularities will qualify for a doctor visit. Parkinson’s is not a fatal disease, but it’s crucial to be on high alert when observing a loved one's actions because it can result in life-threatening situations.

Our specialized Parkinson’s Care Program, the first of its kind in the in-home senior care industry, is designed to provide our caregivers with expert training and education. Our caregivers assist with home safety and fall prevention, diet and nutrition, and light exercise to maintain balance, mobility, and strength. This training is necessary to create personalized care plans for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease. Check out our Parkinson’s Complimentary Wheel form here to understand more about the motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s.

At Senior Helpers Portland West, we strive to have compassionate and skilled caregivers who have adequate training to support individuals with Parkinson’s. We will work with your family to provide care for the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease to help your loved one remain comfortable and as independently as possible given their condition.

For more information on Senior Helpers services, call 503-336-4522 or visit our website to get in contact with us: https://www.seniorhelpers.com/or/portland-west/contact/