People experience Parkinson’s disease in many different ways and will go through a wide range of symptoms. Though it is difficult to predict how mild or severe a person’s symptoms will be, Parkinson’s does appear to take on five different stages as the disease progresses, and learning the course of Parkinson’s may help patients and their loved ones gain a better understanding of the disease and its effects.
Stage 1: During the first stage of the disease, also known as early-stage Parkinson’s, a person typically has only mild symptoms that may present as follows:
- Symptoms are only on one side of the body
- Symptoms are inconvenient, but not disabling
- The person will usually have uncontrolled tremors or shaking in one limb
- Friends and family can usually detect changes in the person’s posture, balance, and facial expressions
Stage 2: During the second stage of Parkinson’s, inability to perform normal physical tasks may become more apparent:
- Symptoms will affect both sides of the body
- The person has minimal disability, and usually encounters ambulatory or balance problems
- Posture is affected
Stage 3: This stage is considered moderate Parkinson’s disease, and more significant disability will begin to develop:
- There is a significant slowing of the body movements
- Early impairment of equilibrium may result in the inability to walk straight or stand
- There is generalized dysfunction that is moderately severe
Stage 4: Stage four represents advanced Parkinson’s disease and is accompanied by severe symptoms:
- Rigidity and bradykinesia, or slow movements are often visible
- The person can usually not complete daily tasks and typically cannot live alone
- Tremors may lessen or disappear for unknown reasons during this time
Stage 5: The final stage of the disease usually takes over the patient’s physical movements:
- The person usually experiences a general reduction in vitality and strength of the body and mind
- The person may not be able to walk or stand
- Requires one-on-one care
During the mid and later stages of Parkinson’s disease, patients may require extra assistance performing activities of daily living. Home care professionals, like those at Aunt Ann’s Home Care, have the compassion and experience to assist Parkinson’s patients and their families with whatever they may need. For more information on how home care can benefit an individual suffering from Parkinson’s disease, contact Aunt Ann’s in San Francisco (415) 974-3530 or the Peninsula (650) 757-2000.
