Parkinson’s Awareness Month Encourages Movement

Seniors are generally at a higher risk for Parkinson’s disease, the neurodegenerative brain disorder with common symptoms of tremors, slow or uncontrolled movement, and impaired balance. An estimated 1 million Americans have Parkinson’s disease, and nearly 60,000 new cases are diagnosed in the U.S. each year.

To help increase awareness and raise funds for beating the neurological disorder, April is designated Parkinson’s Awareness Month, and April 11 is World Parkinson’s Day. Because movement is pivotal in managing the disease and improving strength and balance in people with Parkinson’s, the National Parkinson Foundation (NPF) is sponsoring Moving Day^®events in cities nationwide.

Each Moving Day event features shorter, family friendly walk routes, food and music, plus a Movement Pavilion with activity stations such as yoga, Tai Chi, dance and Pilates, which are proven to help manage Parkinson’s symptoms.

NPF and Right at Home encourage people to participate in year-round in activities that help with understanding Parkinson’s disease and its effects. Ways to get involved include:

• Spending time with someone who has Parkinson’s
• Volunteering for a local chapter event
• Participating in a local fundraiser
• Joining a local support group or starting your own

Parkinson’s disease is not fatal itself, but the Centers for Disease Control lists Parkinson’s complications as the 14th leading cause of death in America. Research specialists worldwide continue to study and improve diagnosis and treatment options with the aim to someday cure the nervous system disorder. For information about Parkinson’s disease, Parkinson’s Awareness Month and Moving Day events, visit www.parkinson.org or call 1-800-4PD-INFO (473-4636).

What suggestions can you share for helping people with Parkinson’s improve their outlook and keep moving to better manage their disease?