Understanding Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is a condition that can be difficult to fully understand at first. If someone you care about has recently been diagnosed, or you are starting to notice changes that concern you, it’s completely normal to feel uncertain.

This guide is designed to explain Parkinson’s in straightforward, everyday terms. It covers what it is, how it affects people, and how the right support can help someone live well for as long as possible.

What Is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition, which means it affects the brain and gets worse over time. It mainly impacts movement, but it can also affect many other areas of life including mood, memory, and speech.

It happens when the brain stops producing enough of a chemical called dopamine. Dopamine helps send messages between parts of the brain and body, especially those that control movement. When dopamine levels drop, those messages become slower or less clear, leading to a range of symptoms.

How Can Parkinson’s Affect a Person?

Every person’s experience of Parkinson’s is different. Symptoms may start off mild and gradually increase over time.

The most common symptoms include:

• Tremors (shaking), especially in the hands or arms

• Slowness of movement, known as bradykinesia

• Stiff muscles or limbs

• Balance problems or frequent falls

• Changes in walking or posture

• 
  

There can also be non-movement symptoms such as:

• Tiredness or low energy

• Depression or anxiety

• Problems with memory or thinking

• Difficulty sleeping

• Speech or swallowing difficulties

• Digestive issues

Symptoms often appear gradually and can vary from day to day.

What Causes Parkinson’s?

We still do not know the exact cause of Parkinson’s. It is believed to be linked to a mix of genetic and environmental factors.

• In most cases, Parkinson’s occurs without a clear reason (known as idiopathic Parkinson’s)

• A small number of cases are linked to inherited genes

• Exposure to certain chemicals or head injuries may play a role in some cases

It is more common in people over 60, younger adults can develop it too.

Is There a Cure for Parkinson’s?

There is currently no cure, but there are a number of effective treatments that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

These include:

• Medication, which can boost or mimic dopamine to ease movement difficulties

• Physiotherapy, to improve strength and mobility

• Speech and language therapy, to support communication or swallowing

• Occupational therapy, to make daily tasks easier

• Mental health support, to manage emotional wellbeing

Some people may benefit from surgical options such as deep brain stimulation, though this is not suitable for everyone.

How Can Someone with Parkinson’s Be Supported?

Support makes a huge difference. Parkinson’s may change a person’s abilities over time, but with the right care and environment, people can continue to enjoy life and maintain independence for many years.

Support might include:

• Adapting the home to reduce falls and promote safety

• Encouraging gentle movement or exercise to stay mobile

• Helping with tasks that become more difficult, such as dressing or eating

• Providing emotional reassurance and patience during difficult days

• Creating structure and routine, which helps reduce anxiety or confusion

• Access to professional care when needed, either at home or in a care setting

It is also important that family carers receive support. Parkinson’s care can be physically and emotionally demanding. Knowing when to ask for help is a strength, not a weakness.

How Care Finder Assist Can Help

At Care Finder Assist, we understand the challenges that come with supporting someone living with Parkinson’s. We offer a free, independent service to help families explore the right care options.

We can help you:

• Understand what types of care might be suitable, whether at home or in a specialist care home

• Find care providers who are experienced in supporting people with Parkinson’s

• Arrange visits, compare options, and feel confident in your choices

• Stay supported after placement, with regular follow-ups

   and reassurance

• Access respite care options, giving carers a much-needed break with peace of mind that their loved one is safe and supported

  
  
  
  

Looking for More Guidance?

Visit our Resources & Blog page for more helpful articles, tools, and advice for families navigating care. Subscribe to stay up to date with new guides, real-world tips, and expert care insights delivered straight to your inbox.

We do not provide medical diagnosis or treatment, but we do help you find the best care provider to meet your loved one’s needs. Book your free consultation here.

Useful Links:

For expert support, diagnosis, and up-to-date medical guidance, we recommend the following trusted organisations:

• Parkinson’s UK: www.parkinsons.org.uk

• NHS – Parkinson’s Overview: www.nhs.uk/conditions/parkinsons-disease

• The Michael J. Fox Foundation (Research & Info): www.michaeljfox.org

• Age UK – Parkinson’s Support Services: www.ageuk.org.uk

 

Disclaimer

This guide is a basic introduction to Parkinson’s disease and is intended for general information only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are concerned about symptoms or need a diagnosis, please speak to a GP or specialist.

Understanding Parkinson’s Disease: A Simple Guide for Families and Carers