Understanding Parkinson’s Disease: A Guide for Patients and Families

(We have included resources for Parkinson’s support in Vancouver and British Columbia at the end of this article)

At Haven Home Physio, we aim to provide compassionate, in-home care for individuals managing various health conditions. One of the neurological disorders we frequently encounter is Parkinson’s disease (PD). Parkinson’s disease affects movement and muscle control, and while it may seem overwhelming, with the right care and management, people with Parkinson’s can maintain a good quality of life.

What is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects the brain’s ability to control movement. It primarily results from the loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain, which are critical for transmitting signals that help regulate movement. While the exact cause of this cell death is still unknown, genetics, environmental factors, and age are thought to play a role.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease often starts with subtle signs that gradually worsen over time. Some common early symptoms include:

• Tremors: Small, involuntary shaking, often starting in the hands or fingers.
• Bradykinesia (slowness of movement): Everyday activities like walking or dressing can become slower or more difficult.
• Muscle rigidity: Stiffness in the limbs, neck, or torso, which can limit the range of motion.
• Impaired posture and balance: Difficulty standing or walking, often resulting in falls or instability.
• Changes in speech: People with Parkinson’s may speak more softly, slur their words, or struggle with articulation.

How Parkinson’s Progresses

The progression of Parkinson’s is unique for each individual, often developing slowly over several years. Early-stage Parkinson’s may involve mild symptoms, but as the disease advances, symptoms become more pronounced and may include difficulty walking, loss of balance, and cognitive changes.

Physiotherapy and Parkinson’s Disease

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in managing the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. By focusing on exercises that improve mobility, strength, flexibility, and balance, physiotherapy can help:

• Maintain physical function: Regular physical therapy can keep muscles engaged, slow muscle deterioration, and maintain independence.
• Improve mobility: Techniques to address slowness of movement and posture can help with walking and daily activities.
• Prevent falls: Balance training reduces the risk of falls, a common concern for people with Parkinson’s.
• Increase confidence: Ongoing physiotherapy sessions provide people with Parkinson’s the confidence to continue daily activities safely and independently.

Benefits of In-Home Physiotherapy for Parkinson’s Disease

At Haven Home Physio, we understand that traveling to a clinic may be difficult for people with Parkinson’s, especially as the disease progresses. In-home physiotherapy offers several benefits, including:

• Convenience: Treatment in the comfort of your own home minimizes stress and fatigue from travel.
• Personalized care: Each session is tailored to your specific needs, ensuring that you get the most out of each visit.
• Familiar environment: Working in your own home helps focus on functional exercises that translate directly to your daily routine.
• Comprehensive support: Family members or caregivers can be present during sessions, enabling them to learn strategies for ongoing support and care.

Support for Families and Caregivers

Caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s can be challenging, especially as the disease progresses. Family members often face their own emotional and physical challenges while supporting the person affected. At Haven Home Physio, we believe in empowering caregivers with practical skills, such as mobility techniques and safe transfer methods, to support their loved ones while protecting their own well-being.

Resources for Parkinson’s Disease in Vancouver

Living with Parkinson’s disease can be overwhelming, but there are numerous resources available in Vancouver to support both individuals with Parkinson’s and their caregivers. These organizations offer education, emotional support, and access to specialized programs and services that can improve quality of life.

1. Parkinson Society British Columbia (PSBC)

Parkinson Society BC is dedicated to providing information, resources, and support for those living with Parkinson’s. Their services include support groups, educational workshops, and advocacy for Parkinson’s research and awareness.

• Website: Parkinson Society BC
• Services: Support groups, webinars, counseling, and fundraising events.

2. Pacific Parkinson’s Research Centre (PPRC)

The PPRC, located at the University of British Columbia, is a leading research facility dedicated to understanding and treating Parkinson’s disease. It offers patients access to cutting-edge research trials and expert care from specialists in Parkinson’s and movement disorders.

• Website: Pacific Parkinson’s Research Centre
• Services: Clinical trials, research participation, and expert consultations.

3. Parkinson Wellness Project (PWP)

Based in Victoria but available to all BC residents, the Parkinson Wellness Project focuses on community-based support and exercise programs designed specifically for individuals with Parkinson’s. They offer both in-person and virtual exercise classes tailored to different levels of mobility and physical ability.

• Website: Parkinson Wellness Project
• Services: Exercise programs, virtual fitness classes, and educational resources.

4. People in Motion

People in Motion is a nonprofit organization in Vancouver that provides access to adaptive fitness programs, recreational activities, and social gatherings for individuals with mobility challenges, including those with Parkinson’s.

• Website: People in Motion
• Services: Accessible fitness programs, social events, and educational seminars.

5. Neuromotion Physiotherapy

Neuromotion Physiotherapy is a specialized physiotherapy clinic in Vancouver that provides one-on-one treatment for individuals with neurological conditions like Parkinson’s. Their team offers personalized therapy plans to help manage symptoms and improve overall mobility and balance.

• Website: Neuromotion Physiotherapy
• Services: Specialized physiotherapy, exercise programs, and neuro-rehabilitation.

6. Vancouver Coastal Health – Parkinson’s Services

Vancouver Coastal Health offers comprehensive care for people with Parkinson’s disease, including referrals to specialists, access to movement disorder clinics, and support groups across the city.

• Website: Vancouver Coastal Health – Parkinson’s Services
• Services: Referrals to specialists, diagnostic assessments, and community support programs.

7. The Movement Disorder Clinic at UBC

The Movement Disorder Clinic at the University of British Columbia (UBC) provides specialized care for individuals with Parkinson’s and other movement disorders. The clinic offers comprehensive evaluations, diagnosis, and treatment plans, as well as access to a multidisciplinary team of neurologists, physiotherapists, and other healthcare professionals.

• Website: The Movement Disorder Clinic at UBC
• Services: Specialized care, access to neurologists, treatment planning, and research opportunities.

8. Rock Steady Boxing Vancouver

Rock Steady Boxing is a unique exercise program specifically designed for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. It uses non-contact, boxing-inspired fitness routines to improve balance, strength, coordination, and overall well-being. The classes are tailored for various levels of ability and provide a fun, supportive environment for participants to engage in regular physical activity.

• Website: Rock Steady Boxing Vancouver
• Services: Boxing-inspired fitness classes, Parkinson’s-specific exercise programs, and a supportive community atmosphere.

How We Can Help

Accessing these resources can significantly improve the well-being of those living with Parkinson’s disease and their families. At Haven Home Physio, we collaborate with many of these organizations to provide the best care possible for our clients. Our goal is to help each person with Parkinson’s maintain their independence, manage symptoms effectively, and live life to the fullest.