Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that is often misunderstood and misdiagnosed. Early detection is crucial, as it leads to effective management of symptoms and significantly improves patients' quality of life. It's time to learn some of the early, subtle signs of Parkinson's disease in seniors, many of which are often overlooked.
What Is Parkinson's Disease?
Parkinson's disease is a long-term degenerative disorder that primarily affects the motor system. The most common symptoms are shaking, rigidity, slowness of movement, and difficulty with walking. It is a progressive illness, meaning that symptoms start gradually and become more severe over time. Consequently, early detection and intervention can be critical in managing the symptoms and improving the quality of life for those living with Parkinson's disease.
Subtle Signs of Parkinson's Disease in Seniors
Some signs of Parkinson's disease in seniors are subtle and may be overlooked or mistaken for normal signs of aging. It's crucial to keep an eye out for these subtler signs, such as:
Changes in Handwriting
One surprising sign is a change in handwriting. This is often referred to as micrographia. People with Parkinson's disease often start to write words notably smaller than before, and the size of the handwriting may decrease as they continue to write. You might also notice that their writing appears tight or cramped.
Changes in the Sense of Smell
Another subtle sign to watch out for is a reduced sense of smell, also known as hyposmia. This is often one of the earliest signs of Parkinson's disease. If your loved one seems to have less of an appetite or doesn't comment on or notice scents like they used to, it could be due to a reduced sense of smell.
Changes in Sleep Patterns
Sleep disturbances are another key sign of Parkinson's disease. These often take the form of excessive daytime sleepiness, sudden bouts of sleep, or restless nights due to vivid dreams or nightmares. While sleep problems are common in older adults, sudden or drastic changes in pattern might be a cause for concern.
How In-Home Caregivers Can Help
Professional caregivers are trained to handle the physical symptoms and emotional toll that Parkinson's can have on an individual. They offer personal care and companionship, assist with mobility, provide medication reminders, and even help manage the behavioral changes that can sometimes occur with this disease. Caregivers understand the challenges faced by seniors with Parkinson's disease and their families. By providing quality care in the comfort of their homes, caregivers help ease the stress and provide the support needed to improve their quality of life.
Senior Helpers Greater San Antonio Supports Seniors With Parkinson's Disease
Early detection of Parkinson's disease is pivotal in managing its symptoms. By being aware of the subtle signs, such as changes in handwriting, reduced sense of smell, and sleep disturbances, you can be proactive in seeking help for your loved one.
At Senior Helpers Greater San Antonio, we stand ready to offer our professional care services to individuals dealing with Parkinson's disease. Whether you live in San Antonio, Helotes, Alamo Heights, Kerrville, or Poteet, we are just a call away. Our commitment is to ensure that our seniors live a fulfilling and comfortable life, irrespective of the challenges they may face. Reach out to us today.