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PARKINSON’S ASSOCIATION

OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

promoting quality of life

by Kelly G. Cooper

P arkinson’s disease (PD) is one of the most
common chronic neurodegenerative disorders
affecting approximately one million Americans
and one percent of individuals older than the age
of 60. PD symptoms and signs are unique to each individual
and the early signs may be mild and go unnoticed. This
progressive disorder of the nervous system gradually affects
movement often beginning with a slight tremor in just one
hand. It is both chronic and progressive persisting over a
long period of time with symptoms worsening.The cause of
PD is unknown and most cases are sporadic, however genetic and environmental
factors are thought to play a contributing role in some cases. Risk factors have been
correlated with age, sex, heredity, and exposure to toxins. Men over 60 years of age
with a family history (more than one relative) of PD and exposure to herbicides or
pesticides are at the highest risk of developing PD. Some research according to the
Mayo Clinic suggests regular aerobic exercise and caffeine may reduce one’s risk
of developing PD.

No cure for Parkinson’s disease exists today, but research is ongoing and
medications or surgery can often provide substantial improvement with motor
symptom disturbances and other side effects. The four main motor symptoms of
Parkinson’s disease include bradykinesia (slow movement), rigidity, tremors, and
posture instability. While PD usually progresses slowly, eventually daily routines
may be affected, from socializing with friends to earning a living and tending
home.These changes can be difficult to accept therefore mental health is extremely
important for PD patients and family alike. Depression and anxiety are even more
common in PD than other chronic illness. “It is estimated that at least 50 percent
of those diagnosed with PD will experience some form of depression during their
illness and up to 40 percent will experience an anxiety disorder,” according to the
National Parkinson Foundation. Local organizations and support groups can help
people cope with this disease’s emotional impact.

Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASFI) is a local non-profit
organization with a mission to “promote quality of life for persons with Parkinson’s
disease and their care partners.” PASFI offers free psychosocial support along with
a variety of educational programs specific to PD. Programs and class schedules
vary by season however always include balance and movement programs, speech
and swallowing classes and other social activities. Class schedules are conveniently
located on their website www.pasfi.org and updated as needed.

If you or someone you know has Parkinson’s disease and would benefit from free
services offered through the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida please
call 239.417.3465 or visit their website www.pasfli.org. PASFI is located in the
Colonial Square complex off Goodlette-Frank Road, Suite 201 Naples, Florida
34102. All services offered are free of charge through members’ kind donations,
grants and special events, such as their annual golf outing and fashion show to
name a few. PASFI is always accepting kind donations and volunteer support,
which is crucial to continue providing the much needed support and resources free
of charge to those in need.

36 Life in Naples | March 2016