The Parkinson Association of the Rockies (PAR) estimates that almost 20,000 individuals across Colorado and Wyoming are living with Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological disorder. This disease occurs when nerve cells (neurons) in the brain become damaged or die. These neurons produce dopamine, a chemical that helps regulate movement and coordination. As dopamine levels drop, individuals experience symptoms like tremors, speech and writing difficulties, sleep disturbances, muscle stiffness, slow movements and balance problems. As the disease progresses, it can also cause mood disorders and cognitive changes, including dementia in later stages.

While the disease presents many challenges for both the individual living with the condition as well as caregivers, experts at the Parkinson’s Foundation, Mayo Clinic and elsewhere offer strategies and tactics that can improve mobility, manage symptoms and reduce isolation in daily life.

Home or Assisted Living? Families often ask if a person living with Parkinson’s should be living at home or in an assisted living community. The answer: it depends on the severity of their symptoms and the level of care needed.

Many people with Parkinson’s can live at home, especially in the early and mid-stages of the disease. However, they may need modifications and support, including home safety adjustments such as grab bars, nonslip flooring or ramps. In addition, the individual living at home may require some assistance with daily activities such as prepping meals, bathing or dressing, medication management, and a regimen of physical therapy and exercise programs. A professional aide may supplement a family caregiver.

As Parkinson’s progresses, some individuals may require more help than can be provided at home. Assisted living communities offer help with activities of daily living and medications, but they receive more

frequent therapies with on-site team members available 24 hours a day. In addition, typically there is more social engagement through activities, which can provide cognitive stimulation and reduce the likelihood of isolation and depression. For those living with advanced Parkinson’s or related dementia, a skilled nursing or memory support community may be recommended.

Getting Help

An individual diagnosed with Parkinson’s – and their family – can gain great insights into the disease and a treatment plan by consulting with a neurologist familiar with Parkinson’s care. Your primary care physician can make a referral to a neurologist. These individuals are often designated as a Movement Disorder Specialist, someone who has committed years of study and practice working with this disease. This individual can help you determine whether home care or an assisted living community makes sense as they assess the patient’s needs, their family’s ability to provide care, and their financial resources.

Another, free way to gain insights and help with this disease is by joining a support group. Many individuals in our community are navigating the system of living with Parkinson’s for themselves or for someone they love, and a support group highlights that you are not alone as you learn from others working through many of the issues you face.

At Jackson Creek Senior Living, families consistently expressed the need for greater care and support for individuals living with Parkinson’s in the community. In response, we partnered with PAR, Enhabit Home Health & Hospice, and Bloom Healthcare to provide resources for those affected in the Tri-Lakes region.

The goal of the Partners for Parkinson’s program is to provide regular staff training with PAR, free exercise classes, educational presentations, and a dedicated support group for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease. The response from attendees has been overwhelmingly positive.

Parkinson’s disease can be difficult to diagnose, but if you suspect you may be affected, consult with your doctor. To learn more about Parkinson’s or to tap into the resources available, visit parkinsonrockies.org.