On World Parkinson's Day, a disease that affects nearly one million Americans, The Parkinson's Foundation invites us to take a closer look at the impact of Parkinson's and the resources available to those dealing with this life-altering condition.
With over 90,000 new diagnoses each year, understanding and support are critical for the Parkinson's community. The Parkinson's Foundation plays a vital role in engaging the community to not only raise awareness but also to share resources that can assist in daily life.
"It's a neurodegenerative progressive disease, so symptoms are going to get worse over time," says John Lehr, the president and CEO of the Parkinson's Foundation. "But there are things you can do...taking your medications...exercising, being as active as you possibly can."
"We're still working with the same medications that were developed more than 60 years ago," Lehr adds.
To combat this, the Parkinson's Foundation focuses on better care and the development of improved medications for those living with the disease.
Cindy Finestone is passionate about sharing her personal battle with Parkinson's.
"No two people with Parkinson's have the same challenges," Finestone says.
For Finestone, the diagnosis 10 years ago meant adapting to new limitations but also discovering that living a great life was possible.
"My struggles have been with the fact that I can't do as much as I used to be able to do every day," Finestone shared. "But even though things have changed, I've also learned that it is possible to live a great quality of life by managing your symptoms. And for me, exercise has been the number one healthy choice.
"I exercise all the time and I feel my best when I do. And research has shown that exercise slows down the progression of Parkinson's and it helps to maintain normal balance, mobility, and normal activities of life, and it can be anything at all that you like to do. The key is to just keep moving."
For those newly diagnosed, Finestone advises getting involved as a means of improving both physical and emotional well-being.
"It's a good thing to have friends and family around to support you," Finestone asserts.
Resources are available for both people with Parkinson's and their caregivers.
You can visit the Parkinson's Foundation website at parkinson.org or call their toll-free helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO. The helpline is staffed with clinicians experienced in Parkinson's care and can guide callers to local resources.
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