What is Parkinson’s Disease? Understanding the Challenges & Solutions

April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month: Honoring Every Journey Toward a Cure

April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month—a time to educate, support, and uplift the Parkinson’s community. Every individual and family affected by Parkinson’s has a unique story, yet we are all united by a common goal: to improve quality of life and work toward a cure. Each journey looks different, with varying challenges and resources, but we hope, no one walks this path alone.

Understanding Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement. It occurs when the brain’s nerve cells that produce dopamine—a chemical essential for motor control—become impaired or die. This leads to symptoms that can impact everyday life in profound ways.

Common Symptoms of Parkinson’s:

Tremors – Uncontrollable shaking, often beginning in the hands or fingers.

Bradykinesia – Slowed movement, making daily activities more difficult.

Muscle Rigidity – Stiffness in the limbs or torso, leading to discomfort and mobility issues.

Postural Instability – Balance problems that increase the risk of falls.

Non-Motor Symptoms – Fatigue, sleep disturbances, mood changes, and cognitive challenges.

Parkinson’s affects nearly one million people in the U.S. and more than 10 million worldwide (source: Parkinson’s Foundation). While it is more common in older adults, early-onset Parkinson’s can also affect younger individuals, reminding us that this condition does not discriminate.

The Daily Challenges of Living with Parkinson’s

Living with Parkinson’s can make everyday tasks—such as getting dressed—frustrating and exhausting. Some of the most common struggles include:

Dexterity Issues – Fine motor skill impairment can make traditional buttons, zippers, and fastenings difficult to manage.

Mobility Limitations – Stiffness and balance issues can make bending, reaching, or pulling clothes over the head a challenge.

Fatigue – The energy required to complete simple tasks can be overwhelming, making independence difficult to maintain.

Frustration & Emotional Impact – Struggling with daily activities can lead to feelings of helplessness or embarrassment.

Despite these changes, individuals and families facing Parkinson’s show incredible resilience. Support comes in many forms—whether through community connections, medical care, or innovative solutions that simplify daily life. Parkinson’s Awareness Month is about community, support, and shared experiences. Every journey with Parkinson’s is unique, and we want to honor each one.