Is There More than One Type of Parkinson’s?

By 9  am on

Are There Different Types of Parkinson in Des Moines, IA

Parkinson’s disease affects more than a million people in the United States. According to Harvard Medical School, Parkinson’s is the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder. There are as many as six different types of so-called Parkinsonisms. If you have an aging loved one who has recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s, learning about the various types of Parkinson’s can ensure you provide your loved one with the highest level of quality care. 

Drug-Induced Parkinson’s 

This occurs as a side effect of certain medications and drugs. These substances include some antipsychotics, calcium blockers, and amphetamines. The reason these drugs are classified as causing a type of Parkinsonism is because of the way these particular medications affect dopamine levels in the brain.

Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) 

This is the most common form of Parkinson’s. It typically affects people over the age of 50 and can progress rapidly into dementia. The symptoms of PSP include vertigo, imbalance, slurred speech, problems with body mechanics, and depression. Many seniors in the early stages of Parkinson’s are able to live on their own, but they may need a bit of help with everyday activities, such as exercising and preparing nutritious meals. Aging adults who require assistance with the tasks of daily living can benefit from reliable elderly home care. Families trust Home Care Assistance to provide the high-quality care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. Our caregivers are trained to help seniors prevent serious illnesses and encourage them to make healthier decisions as they age.

Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB) 

This is another form of Parkinson’s that affects the neurological system by attacking the individual’s cognitive abilities. This could take the form of hallucinations, confusion, and early dementia. Those diagnosed with DLB often require around-the-clock monitoring and assistance, especially as the disease progresses. Families of seniors living with this form of dementia may want to consider hiring dementia caregivers to assist with daily activities and address complex symptoms. If you’re looking for reliable dementia care, Des Moines Home Care Assistance offers high-quality at-home care for seniors who are managing the challenges of cognitive decline. We offer a revolutionary program called the Cognitive Therapeutics Method (CTM), which uses mentally stimulating activities to boost cognitive health in the elderly. CTM has proven to help seniors with dementia regain a sense of pride and accomplishment and learn how to engage with others in an enjoyable way.

Vascular Parkinson’s Disease 

This is caused by having several small strokes within a short period. Symptoms can come about rapidly and generally affect the lower part of the body, such as the lower abdomen and legs. Mobility is restricted, but the symptoms of vascular Parkinson’s tend to plateau and progress slowly over time.

Multiple System Atrophy (MSA)

MSA has several subcategories: Shy-Drager syndrome (DSD), striatonigral degeneration (SND), and olivopontocerebellar atrophy (OPCA). Perhaps the only link between these various maladies is that individuals tend to respond poorly to conventional medication. There are a wide range of symptoms, from imbalance to autonomic dysfunction.

Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD) 

This is the final form of Parkinson’s. It’s quite rare and often manifests much later than other forms of the disease, usually around the age of 60. There’s no specific treatment for CBD, with seniors most commonly experiencing language degeneration and difficulty controlling affected limbs. Caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s can be extremely challenging, and a compassionate professional caregiver can be a wonderful source of support. If your elderly loved one is living with a serious medical condition and needs help managing the tasks of daily living, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a Des Moines senior home care agency you can trust. Our caregivers are available 24/7, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all of our in-home care services. To create a customized in-home care plan for your loved one, call us at (515) 264-2438.

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR BLOG

    Request Free Information or
    Schedule a Free in-Home Consultation