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Parkinson's At A Glance Basic Information About Parkinson's DiseaseWhat is Parkinson's? Parkinson's disease is a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system that often impairs motor skills, speech, and other functions. In Parkinson's, the production of a chemical necessary for normal body movement, called dopamine, is diminished. This decrease in dopamine can result in one or more of the following symptoms: tremor (rhythmic shaking), muscle stiffness or rigidity, slowness of movement, and difficulty with balance and walking. Symptoms vary from person to person and not all symptoms will occur in each individual. Parkinson's disease belongs to a group of conditions called movement disorders. It is characterized by muscle rigidity, tremor, a slowing of physical movement (bradykinesia) and, in extreme cases, a loss of physical movement (akinesia). Who Gets Parkinson's? There are an estimated 1.5 million Americans with Parkinson's, with approximately 50,000 new cases diagnosed every year. In San Diego County, where 15,000+ patients live, the disease affects about 50,000 individuals including family members. Parkinson's is most often diagnosed between the ages of 60 and 70, however 5-10% of those diagnosed are in their 30s, 40s and 50s. What Causes Parkinson's? The specific cause of Parkinson's is unknown; however, most researchers believe it may be due to a combination of environmental and genetic factors. Only a few rare cases are purely genetic. We also know that Parkinson's is not contagious. Risk Factors Although a primary cause for Parkinson's disease is yet to be identified, a number of risk factors are clearly evident. For more information, click on Parkinson's Risk Factors. Is There a Cure for Parkinson's? There is no cure at this time, but Parkinson's symptoms can usually be treated effectively with medications and other treatment strategies. In the last ten years, researchers have made great strides in understanding neurological disorders and how the brain works. New drugs for treating the symptoms continuing to be developed as well as new complimentary treatment strategies. There are plenty of reasons to be hopeful and optimistic about treatment and the eventual cure of Parkinson's. Living With Parkinson's Disease Denial. Helplessness. Anger. Withdrawal from social circles. These are all forms of coping with Parkinson's Disease that may manifest themselves on diagnoses. It's not uncommon for patient's to begin avoiding doctor's appointments, or refusing to take their medication. All in the very human hope that the diagnosis is somehow not true. Ultimately it is important to confront the diagnosis as timely treatment and making changes to one's lifestyle will allow you to live your life to the fullest, and still be involved in both your work and social life. Click here for more information. Is Support Available? The Parkinson's Disease Association of San Diego (PDASD) provides a rich array of support services that may be needed, over time, by patients, their family members, and caregivers. For example, support groups are available to help patients and families learn and share positive ways to cope with the challenges of Parkinson's. The PDASD also provides a number of other services as well and can make referrals to community resources that may be helpful. By adopting a positive, upbeat attitude, equipping yourself with knowledge, partnering with your doctors, and taking action, you will give yourself the best possible chance at living better with Parkinson's. Why Parkinson's is Difficult to Diagnose While Parkinson's disease has very distinctive features, it is rather a difficult disease to identify, particularly while it is in its early stages. Unfortunately there are no precise tests, which doctors can do to establish an exact diagnosis of Parkinson's disease and regrettably especially in its early stages it might be mistaken for other diseases. If and when this happens, it delays or prevents the appropriate action being administered in the quickest feasible time. Click here to read the rest of the article. Early Signs of Parkinson's Disease Early signs of Parkinson's disease are usually subtle and surface gradually. If you have this condition, you may start out getting tired too often or you could frequently feel weak. Shaking, speaking too softly, or having changes in your handwriting may also be some early signs of the condition. Click here to read the rest of the article. Recommended Reading The Spiritual Crisis of Parkinson's Disease The Psychological Effects of Parkinson's Disease Psychological Symptoms and Treatments of Parkinson's Disease Have You Recently Been Diagnosed with Parkinson's? Taking the Right Steps Makes all the Difference Young Onset Parkinsonians Young Onset Parkinson's Resource Center What You Need to Know
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Veteran's News Updates New Diseases Associated with Agent Orange Secretary Shinseki decided to establish service-connection for Vietnam Veterans with B cell leukemias, such as hairy cell leukemia; Parkinson's disease; and ischemic heart disease. This is based on an independent study by the Institute of Medicine showing an association with exposure to Agent Orange. Vietnam veterans with these diseases may be eligible for disability compensation and health care benefits. Click here for more information. Parkinson's Disease Research, Education & Clinical Research Center The Veterans Administration is expanding access to benefits for approximately 500,000 Veterans who were previously precluded from receiving benefits due to an income limits policy set in 2003. The VA began registering Priority Group 8 Veterans in July 2009, and expects to see over 250, 000 enrollees by 2011. In 2001, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) set upon its mission to revolutionize services for the approximated 40 thousand veterans afflicted by Parkinson's disease (PD). The first tier of this campaign focused on the establishment of the Parkinson's Disease Research, Education and Clinical Centers (PADRECCs). Six Centers of Excellence were founded at the Philadelphia, Richmond, Houston, West Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Portland/Seattle VA Medical Centers. Each PADRECC is designed to deliver state-of-the art clinical care, pioneering research, and educational programs to an expansive geographic region. These Centers are staffed by internationally recognized movement disorder specialists and researchers. In 2003, the PADRECCs introduced the National VA Parkinson's Disease Consortium in an effort to promote PD awareness across the universal VA Healthcare System. This initiative has focused on professional networking, mentorship, and training. The Consortium is currently comprised of over 225 members, including physicians, nurses, pharmacists, social workers, physical and occupational therapists, and other allied health professionals. Membership is free and encouraged for all VA providers. The Consortium Center Network was subsequently launched in 2006 as a means to broaden the impact of the PADRECC mission. These 50 designated Centers grant veterans convenient access to specialized movement disorders services within all VISNs. The PADRECCs and Consortium Centers now create a hub and spoke model of care that is highly innovative and effective. Click here for more information. On December 19, 2009, the Senate gave final approval to the Department of Defense Appropriations bill, sending to President Obama a piece of legislation including $25 million for the innovative Neurotoxin Exposure Treatment Parkinson's Research (NETPR) Program. The NETPR program is the only Parkinson's-specific research program funded by the Federal government. Advocates must work to secure funding for this program every year, and the Parkinson's community rallied through a tough economy to ensure that the NETPR program did not receive a budget cut. Parkinson's Action Network (PAN) requests that you e-mail your representatives and Senators now asking them to sign the NETPR program dear Colleague funding letter at actionalert@parkinsonsaction.org February 8, 2010: President Barack Obama recently signed the Veterans' Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2009. The new law will enable the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to reimburse veterans enrolled in VA health care for the remaining cost of emergency treatment if the veteran has outside insurance that only covers part of the cost. Previously, VA could reimburse veterans or pay outside hospitals directly only if a veteran has no outside health insurance. Vietnam Veterans with ischemic heart disease, Parkinson's disease or B cell leukemia should file claims now with the Department of Veterans Affairs for disability compensation. Veteran advocacy groups are urging the swift filing of claims because veterans eventually found eligible for disability pay for these diseases will be able to receive compensation back to the date their claims were filed. To learn more about your state's benefits, visit the Military.com State Veteran's Benefits Directory. Veterans Administration program called Aid and Attendance began in 1953, but many veterans are not aware that the program exists. The program can be used to pay for adult day care, skilled nursing care and home care. The program differs from the disability pension provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. For more information, visit the Department of Veterans Affairs website at www.VA.gov or contact a local veteran's service organization. Medicare – MediCal – Free Legal Services – Caregiver Elder Law & Advocacy of San Diego recently announced the creation of the Rights Enforcement Project. The California Nursing Home Resident's Bill of Rights lists basic rights of adequate health care for persons residing in nursing homes. Designed to prevent harm to residents in skilled nursing facilities, the project focuses on advocacy for resident health care rights, monitoring skilled nursing facilities, and redressing violations of resident health care rights. For more information, call the Elder Law & Advocacy Nursing Home Rights Enforcement Project at (858) 565-1392. Advanced Health Care Directive California Medical Association Medicare Health Insurance Counseling Getting Help with Health Insurance Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plans Centers for Medicare and Medicaid U.S. Government Medicare Medicare Assistance and Information Getting Answers & Negotiating Claims Cool Zone Program The Cool Zone program provides help to seniors and persons with disabilities to stay cool during hot summer months. Click on www.AIS-SD.org and click "Cool Zone" to learn more, or call 800 510-2020. San Diego Eldercare House Call Program A great resource that covers a wide variety of needs for people who have difficulty leaving the house. Click on San Diego Eldercare House Call for more information. Medicare and Medical Disability Benefits Medicare is our only national health insurance program, serving approximately 44 million Americans who have disabilities or chronic conditions. This site reviews three primary ways people with disabilities receive Medicare as well as their rights to health care, and access to services and equipment. Click on CA Health Advocates for more information. Free and Low Cost Health Care Clinic Database Click Here to Find Free and Low Cost Health Care in Your Area Health Education Council The Health Education Council conducts local, regional, state and national health education programs. Call (916) 556-3344 for more information. California Department of Health and Human Services The DHS Website has links and resources relating to the general health of California. The Office of the Patient Advocate The Office of the Patient Advocate (OPA) is an independent office in state government charged with informing and educating consumers about their rights and responsibilities as HMO enrollees. The Department of Managed Health Care The Department of Managed Health Care is designed to ensure aggressive prevention and high quality health care for Californians enrolled in managed care plans. Nursing Home Resources
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Speech and Voice Therapy Request a Free Copy of Speaking Effectively Scripps Memorial Hospital Tremble Clefs Therapeutic Singing Group Please Consider Partnering With PDASD to Improve Quality of Life Your investment helps support programs and services that improve the quality of life for families affected by Parkinson's, and provides funding for medical research seeking more effective treatments and a cure.
See how your gift gives hope and strength to families facing the daily challenges of Parkinson's. Click on the Many Faces of Parkinson's to see how our programs and services maximize self-sufficiency for Parkinson's patients and provide support for their families. The Parkinson's Disease Association of San Diego Exists to Improve |
