Things may have been pretty normal – even though your parent was diagnosed with Parkinson’s years ago. But now things have changed. Falls and loss of weight are signs that your parent needs help.

Parkinson’s disease can affect a person’s movement, balance and posture; it can result in shaking, fatigue and rigidity. It can affect swallowing and affect your parent’s ability to get a good night’s sleep. There is no cure for Parkinson’s but there are medications, therapies and regimens that can help.

Medications such as levodopa and dopamine agonists can be effective but dosages need to be closely and continually monitored and adjusted as needed as the disease progresses, and care providers need to be aware of significant side effects.

Physical activity can be beneficial in helping to maintain mobility and improve your parent’s quality of life. A regular program of exercise or participation in classes that are specifically designed for participants with Parkinson’s, such as tai chi, can be beneficial on both a physical and social level.