A Parkinson’s diagnosis can change everything. Maybe your loved one has started to move a little slower, their hands tremble when they reach for their coffee, or they struggle with balance more than before.
As a caregiver, you may wonder: What’s next? What does this mean for the future? How can I help?
That’s why The Kensington Reston hosted a virtual event: “Lewy Body Dementia, Parkinson’s & Alzheimer’s: Treatments & Diagnosis.”
This session brought together leading experts, including Dr. Keith Fargo from the Lewy Body Dementia Association, Dr. Connor Courtney from the Parkinson’s Foundation, and Claire Day from the Alzheimer’s Association.
Let’s discover the differences between Parkinson’s, Lewy body dementia (LBD), and Alzheimer’s, share the latest treatment options, and practical caregiving strategies.
What is Parkinson’s disease?
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects movement. It happens when nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine—a chemical responsible for smooth, controlled movements—begin to die.
As dopamine levels drop, movement becomes more complex, coordination is impaired, and tremors may appear.
It’s a slow-moving neurological condition, and while it isn’t fatal, such as Alzheimer’s or ALS, its progressive nature means symptoms worsen over time.
The exact cause is unknown, but genetics, environmental factors, and aging all play a role.
What are the four key symptoms used to diagnose Parkinson’s?
A Parkinson’s diagnosis is based on four primary symptoms, often referred to as the “cardinal signs”:
Doctors may also use brain imaging tests and medical history to confirm the diagnosis. However, because symptoms develop gradually, Parkinson’s is often misdiagnosed in its early stages.
- Tremors: Shaking, often in the hands or fingers, even at rest
- Bradykinesia (Slowness of Movement): Everyday tasks take longer, steps get shorter, and facial expressions may become reduced.
- Muscle Rigidity: Stiffness in the limbs, making movement difficult and even painful
- Postural Instability: Problems with balance, leading to falls
Parkinson’s, Lewy Body Dementia, and Alzheimer’s: How are they connected?
While Parkinson’s, Lewy body dementia, and Alzheimer’s are all brain disorders, they affect different areas and functions:
- Parkinson’s disease primarily affects movement but can lead to cognitive decline in later stages.
- Lewy body dementia (LBD) is caused by the buildup of Lewy bodies (abnormal protein clumps) in the brain. It shares symptoms with both Alzheimer’s (memory loss) and Parkinson’s (movement issues).
- Alzheimer’s disease mainly targets memory and thinking skills, with movement typically unaffected until much later.
One of the most well-known connections? Some people with Parkinson’s eventually develop Parkinson’s disease dementia (PDD), which shares characteristics with Lewy body dementia.
Famous people with Parkinson’s: raising awareness & breaking stigmas
Parkinson’s is often associated with well-known figures who have helped raise awareness.
Their experiences show that while Parkinson’s is life-changing, it doesn’t define a person—and breakthroughs in research continue to offer hope:
- Michael J. Fox: Diagnosed in his 30s, the actor has dedicated his life to Parkinson’s research.
- Muhammad Ali: The legendary boxer’s later years were marked by the disease, highlighting its impact on movement.
- Robin Williams: Initially diagnosed with Parkinson’s, doctors later discovered he had Lewy body dementia, reinforcing the connection between the two diseases.
Challenges of living with Parkinson’s (and how caregivers can help)
Caring for someone with Parkinson’s is a marathon, not a sprint. As symptoms progress, daily life can become more challenging.
- Fatigue & slowness: Tasks that once took minutes may take much longer. Encouraging rest and patience is key.
- Swallowing & speech problems: Eating and talking can become difficult as muscles weaken. Speech therapy and softer foods can help.
- Falls & mobility issues: Balance can be unpredictable. Installing grab bars, using walking aids, and making the home fall-proof is essential.
- Mood changes & depression: Parkinson’s isn’t just physical—it affects mood and cognition, too. Support groups and therapy can be incredibly beneficial.
Breakthrough therapies & adaptive equipment for Parkinson’s
While there’s no cure for Parkinson’s, there are cutting-edge treatments and adaptive tools that improve quality of life.
Medication advances
- Levodopa (L-Dopa) remains the gold standard for treating movement symptoms.
- Newer drugs help smooth out the “off” periods when the medication wears off.
- Leqembi, a drug designed to slow early-stage Alzheimer’s, is also being explored for its potential benefits in other neurodegenerative diseases.
Therapies that make a difference
- Physical therapy: Strengthens muscles, improves coordination, and prevents falls.
- Occupational therapy: Helps adapt daily activities to match changing abilities.
- Music therapy: Parkinson’s affects rhythm and movement—music can help improve walking and coordination.
Game-changing equipment
- Weighted utensils help reduce tremors while eating.
- Voice amplifiers assist with soft speech.
- Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is an option for those with severe motor symptoms—this implant sends electrical signals to the brain to improve movement.
How The Kensington Reston supports families & caregivers
Navigating a Parkinson’s diagnosis is overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone.
The Kensington Reston provides the specialized care your loved one needs at every stage of the disease.
- Customized memory care neighborhoods are designed for different cognitive and physical ability levels.
- On-site physical therapy and wellness programs to support movement, communication, and daily living skills.
- Caregiver support and education to help families navigate the journey with confidence.
- A warm, compassionate community that feels like home.
At The Kensington Reston, we care not only for our residents but also for their families.
Take the first step toward getting the support and resources you need.
Contact our team today to learn more about our options and find the perfect place for your loved one to call home.