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Understanding the Challenges of Parkinson's Disease and Dementia
Learn more about Parkinson's Disease and Parkinson's Disease Dementia (PDD).
According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, nearly one million people in the US are living with Parkinson’s disease, a neurodegenerative disorder. It is estimated that up to 80 percent of individuals with Parkinson’s may develop dementia. The average time from the beginning of Parkinson’s to developing dementia is approximately 10 years.
Understanding the unique challenges of this disease and its associated dementia can help improve the quality of life for individuals who have just been diagnosed, whether they are of advanced age or relatively young.
What Is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a condition that occurs when the dopamine-producing cells in our brain stop working or die. Besides being the chemical that plays a role in how we experience pleasure, dopamine also assists in coordinating movement. Parkinson’s is often first diagnosed when someone begins experiencing tremors, stiffness, slowness and balance problems. These symptoms slowly become worse over time.
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What is Parkinson’s Disease Dementia (PDD)?
Parkinson’s disease dementia is cognitive decline that develops in individuals with dementia at least a year after the original diagnosis. Since Parkinson’s is a progressive form of cognitive decline, the brain changes eventually spread to different areas of the brain that affect mental functions.
PDD develops when deposits known as “Lewy bodies” build up in the brain. These deposits are composed of a certain protein called alpha-synuclein. Lewy bodies are also what causes another form of dementia, Lewy body dementia (LBD), which has led some researchers to believe that the two types of dementia – LBD and PDD – are actually two variations of the same disease.
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To learn more about Parkinson's Disease and dementia, Bridges® by EPOCH and Senior Helpers invite you to attend an upcoming educational session.
Lunch & Learn: Parkinson’s 101
Tuesday, May 16 | 12 – 2 p.m.
With Mark Friedman, CDP, Owner of Senior Helpers Boston & South Shore
Location: Bridges® by EPOCH | 1 Sgt. William B. Terry Drive | Hingham
Learn how to recognize and manage both motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and how a diagnosis is formed. Explore treatment options and support resources to help those with Parkinson’s live fuller, more confident lives.
Seating is limited. Register online or contact Lynn at Bridges® Hingham to RSVP.
Send Lynn an Email: lstefano@bridgesbyepoch.com
