In my capacity as a neuropsychologist, I conduct neuropsychological evaluations of patients afflicted with Parkinson’s Disease (PD), examining their cognitive functions and psychological wellbeing. My first encounter with PD was particularly poignant, where I evaluated a patient who was a retired doctor. It was during this experience that I became acutely aware of the tendency of patients to overlook the mood and cognitive difficulties that can arise from the disease, apart from the physical symptoms.
Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month
April marks Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month, a time to advocate for a better understanding of the disorder and challenges faced by those living with PD. World Parkinson’s Day is observed on April 11 every year to raise awareness of PD.
What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Did you know that PD affects 3 in every 1,000 Singaporeans aged 50 and older? There are estimated to be 6,000 to 8,000 people in Singapore who have PD and related conditions. The risk of developing PD increases with age.
PD is a neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects movement. Individuals with PD can experience symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, impaired balance and coordination. It is caused by the progressive degeneration of the substantia nigra, a structure of the brain responsible for producing dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter which plays a crucial role in controlling and regulating movement.
Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease
The main symptoms of PD can vary from person to person, and their severity may also differ.
The primary symptoms include:
- Tremors (typically occurring at rest)
- Slowness of movement
- Muscle rigidity and stiffness
- Postural instability
- Impaired balance and coordination
- PD can also manifest with non-motor symptoms, which may include:
- Masked facies – a “mask-like” facial expression
- Speech changes
- Sleep disturbances
- Mood and emotional difficulties, such as depression and anxiety
- Cognitive decline, including poorer attention, speed of processing, memory, and executive functioning
Treatment and Management of Parkinson’s Disease
Early diagnosis is critical in managing PD effectively. Healthcare professionals rely on a combination of medical history, clinical assessments, and sometimes specialised imaging. While there is currently no cure for PD, early detection can lead to timely interventions and improved quality of life. Medications and therapies including exercise and rehabilitation, can be effective in managing symptoms. Regular exercise has been found to be beneficial for individuals with PD, helping to improve mobility, balance, and overall well-being (Rafferty et al., 2017).
Importance of Community Support
PD can gradually affect an individual’s ability to perform daily tasks independently. This loss of independence can be emotionally distressing, impacting one’s self-esteem and overall sense of autonomy. Individuals may feel self-conscious about their symptoms, leading to isolation and a reduced desire to engage in social activities.
Communities play a pivotal role in providing a supportive network for both patients with PD and their caregivers. Local events, support groups, and community initiatives contribute to fostering understanding, practical assistance, and emotional support.
Here are some resources
• Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders
• Parkinson’s Disease: 5 Common Myths Debunked
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms suggestive of PD, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and diagnosis. For those having difficulties adjusting to a diagnosis, it is advisable to seek support from mental health professionals.
To meet with a professional psychologist or counsellor, call The Other Clinic at 8809 0659 or email us hello@theotherclinic.sg.
References
Rafferty, M. R., Schmidt, P. N., Luo, S. T., Li, K., Marras, C., Davis, T. L., Guttman, M., Cubillos, F., Simuni, T., & all NPF-QII Investigators (2017). Regular Exercise, Quality of Life, and Mobility in Parkinson’s Disease: A Longitudinal Analysis of National Parkinson Foundation Quality Improvement Initiative Data. Journal of Parkinson’s disease, 7(1), 193–202.