Parkinson's Disease and Aging

Course Summary

Parkinson's disease is a chronic disorder of the brain and the nervous system that is progressive and irreversible. Neurologic changes that are characteristic of Parkinson’s disease include slow, progressive damage to parts of the brain and nervous system that control movement. Currently, the cause of Parkinson’s disease is not known and the disease cannot be detected in the early stages of its development. While treatment can slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease, there is no cure. Eventually, the patient who has Parkinson’s disease will develop permanent complications and disabilities, and ambulation and self-care will not be possible. Various degrees of assistance by healthcare workers are needed, such as help with activities of daily living and physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.