This Parkinson’s Awareness Month, we are sharing the answers to some Frequently Asked Questions, to help spread awareness, provide education, and show our support to the Parkinson’s community, no matter which stage of your health journey you might be on.
Please read on below, to learn the answers to some of the questions behind the ‘Where’ of Parkinson’s.
The Where
Where do people with Parkinson’s live?
Research indicates nearly 1% of the Victorian population live with Parkinson’s. But estimated prevalence continues to be difficult to confirm.
Where in the brain does Parkinson’s impact?
The substantia nigra pars compacta, a small region in the midbrain, is the main area affected in Parkinson’s disease. Neurons in this region produce dopamine, a neurotransmitter essential for smooth, coordinated movement, as well as for regulating mood, motivation, and certain cognitive functions. In Parkinson’s, these neurons progressively degenerate and die, causing a significant drop in dopamine levels, which disrupts communication with other parts of the brain, (including involved in motor control potentially contributes to ongoing dismissal/lack of recognition of non-motor symptoms).
Where can I get Parkinson’s advice?
Being diagnosed with Parkinson’s is a personal experience but no one has to face Parkinson’s alone. There can be various challenges throughout your journey with Parkinson’s and it is normal to feel a range of emotions in response to this. However, most people diagnosed with Parkinson’s continue to live long and rewarding lives, even as the condition progresses. Fight Parkinson’s is dedicated to ensuring you have the information you need to live well with Parkinson’s.
We can help:
- Equip you with the knowledge and confidence to manage the condition
- Build your team of health professionals
- Provide a range of support services to assist in managing Parkinson’s and improving quality of life
- Support you through understanding your treatment options
- Learn about exercise and eating well
- Understand the common medications used in the treatment of Parkinson’s
- Provide information on how and where to join a peer support group
- Guide carers, family members, and friends to understand how they can support the person in their life living with Parkinson’s, and the importance of looking after themselves too
Where can I get Parkinson’s support?
Fight Parkinson’s is available to support people living with Parkinson’s from recently diagnosed through to advanced Parkinson’s, along with family, carers and health professionals. You are not alone – we are in this together.
For information and support from the Fight Parkinson’s Health Team:
Free call: 1800 931 031
Email: [email protected]
Keep an eye out throughout April to learn more about Parkinson’s and read a heartfelt personal story from one of our valued community members.
