Capital Region | Capital Health | Late Spring 2018

crmc.org 3 When someone in your life is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, it may feel like your life has been upended. Certainly both of your lives have changed—Parkinson’s is a progressive brain and movement disorder with no cure. You may need to adjust to a new role as caregiver, and your loved one will need to adjust to the role of being cared for. Learning more about the disease will help. Here are three important facts to know: things to know about Parkinson’s disease Parkinson’s Support Group Day: Third Friday of each month Time: 1 to 2 p.m. Location: Tunnell/Wherritt Community Conference Center, Capital Region Medical Center For more information: Call 573-632-5613 1 Parkinson’s affects movement, with symptoms like tremor, rigidity and balance problems. But a cluster of three other symptoms— mood changes, depression and anxiety—may have the largest effect on your loved one’s health. 2 How your loved one responds to medications can fluctuate. It’s not unusual for physical abilities to change from one day to the next as a result. 3 A network of support can prove to be a big help. Now is a good time to start recruiting friends and family members you can rely on, either in emergencies or when you need a break from caregiving. Also, a Parkinson’s support group in your area or online can help. Experienced caregivers can help you know what to expect and maybe even reassure you that living with the disease is more manageable than you think. To learnmore about thedisease, visit the National ParkinsonFoundationwebsite at parkinson.org .