When Your Parkinson’s Is Progressing

Risk of falls

Parkinson's can weaken some muscles and cause others to get stiff. This can change how you move and raise your risk of falling and of hurting yourself. 

Studies show about two-thirds of people with Parkinson's fall at least once a year. And after you fall one time, you have a higher risk of another fall in the future. 

Mental side of falling

If you've fallen before, you may be scared to fall again – and you're not alone. Studies have shown that being scared of falling can impact everyday life. That's because you may not feel safe and skip out on activities you'd normally enjoy. 

If you're having falls, or if you feel unsteady on your feet or unsafe, ask your care team about rehabilitation. It's a type of physical therapy that can help you get stronger, improve your gait (how you walk), and help lower your risk of falls.

Reducing your risks

Staying active can also help your balance get better. The more you move, the stronger you'll get. And staying active may lower your risk of falling. 

Small changes at home can also be a big help. 

Ask your care team about other tips to lower your risk of falls at home.

Use Assistive Devices

Canes, crutches, and walkers can help you stall the use of a wheelchair longer. They may also lower your chance of falls. 

These devices can assist and lower the stress on your legs. Another bonus is they can help you take longer steps, which helps you lower your chance of freezing up. 

Connect with others who have advanced Parkinson's to get more tips and learn to use mobility aids. They can help you feel a sense of belonging and encourage you, too. 

Advanced Parkinson's Disease Complications

Parkinson's disease can change how your muscles move and cause complications and health issues. Here are some complications that can happen with Parkinson's disease:

Mental health conditions

Parkinson's, as with many chronic conditions, can also come with depression, anxiety, and mood changes. These mental health problems can impact your everyday life and how your treatment works. Talking to your doctor or a therapist can help.

Cognitive problems

About 4 people out of 5 get dementia as Parkinson's progresses. 

Changes in your ability to think may also progress and make your social life more challenging. But letting your family and friends know about your condition can help. They can look out for any:

• Mood changes
• Early signs of changes in mental skills
• Dementia

Your family can help you know when it's time to get other people on your care team involved.

Visual and irrational belief symptoms

 About 2 people out of 5 with later-stage Parkinson's get hallucinations or delusions. More often, your:

• Hallucinations are visual
• Delusions are illogical, irrational, or untrue beliefs 

With Parkinson's hallucinations, you may see things that aren't there. But these visual events can also affect your other senses and you may:

• Hear voices or sounds
• Smell odors that aren't there
• Feel or taste something that isn't there

A Parkinson's delusion can mean that you may feel strongly about something that isn't based in reality. Delusions can come with other symptoms and you may:

• Feel agitated
• Act aggressively
• Argue
• Behave in ways that aren't safe

 It's not clear exactly what causes hallucinations and delusions with later-stage Parkinson's disease. Some experts think it may be related to your:

• Medications
• Dementia
• Other things related to Parkinson's disease

If you or your caregiver is concerned about hallucinations, delusions, or both, reach out to your care team. Your care team and doctor can help you figure out the best next steps.

Swallowing, medications, and other problems 

Although the condition impacts everyone differently, here are some common complications.

If you or your caregiver notices any unusual or new symptoms, write them down and tell your care team. This can help prevent complications early and lower your risk of hospitalization as your condition advances.

How to Plan for the Future

No one can predict how your condition will progress, but you can be prepared. Here are some tips to help you and your caregivers.

Track your symptoms

Keep track of your symptoms as they're changing. Use an app, write them down, or log them. Go to each doctor's appointment prepared to bring up any new changes. 

And ask questions; your doctor can explain what these changes mean for you and your loved ones.

Get organized

Create a binder with all your:

• Medical records and office visits summaries
• Financial records
• Insurance documents
• Other important documents 

This can keep everything in one spot, so it's easy to get to for other people when they need it. 

These records can also help you, your care team, and caregivers in case of an emergency. That way, you'll have everything on hand and in order, before you need them.

 Advance directive planning

Advance care planning can also be a key step, especially when you're facing a condition that will likely progress. This process can be invaluable for you and your loved ones.

Name and appoint a loved one who knows your wishes in your advance directive. That way you'll know your wishes will be communicated. The directive also helps ensure you and your family members have more control over your choices. 

You can also consider a living will, health care proxy, or power of attorney. These documents can help you plan for health care decisions and end-of-life care.

It's never too soon to reach out to your care team or other groups to talk about your condition. Your goals for care, home safety, and caregiver support matter. And your advance directive can make sure your wishes are carried out.