This is a replay of the one hour webinar from the Michael J. Fox Foundation. It fully explains the difference between dementia and Parkinson’s, and their similarities.
Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s Disease is a chronic degenerative disease of the central nervous system in which the brain struggles to produce dopamine. Because of this, motor functions are impaired. Symptoms include daytime somnolence, insomnia, fatigue and disturbing dreams. There is general muscle weakness, slowness, loss of reflexes, and loss of both fine and motor coordination and balance.
The body becomes rigid and stiff and facial skin becomes mask-like. The neck and trunk cannot twist. Arms cannot swing normally, and the posture becomes unstable. The body starts to stoop. Painful muscle contractions occur, often twisting extremities. Tremor sets in, the gait is affected, and the patient starts to shuffle.
The individual is also unable to sit still. Speech deteriorates, becoming hoarse and monotonous or too rapid and unintelligible. The individual has difficulty swallowing and starts to drool. Depression and apathy develops and leads to executive dysfunction, and then memory loss and dementia,
Studies have proven that outward indications of Parkinson’s Disease could be eased by massage therapy. There are millions of Americans afflicted with Parkinson’s Disease and 50,000 more are diagnosed each year. Although there is still no known cure, medication helps alleviate its symptoms.
Dementia
Did you know that elevated blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes are risk factors for dementia? These risks become more severe due to smoking, high cholesterol and insufficient exercise. Once we age, it becomes increasingly vital that we control these disorders in order to maintain good mental health as aging progresses.
Dementia is difficult to manage. If someone you love has dementia, be as patient as you possibly can with them.
As you grow older, so does your brain. Studies show that exercising the human brain is as important as exercising your body. Memory exercises will keep your mind active and occupied. It can even help fight off dementia symptoms.
