Living with Parkinson’s
“You can take steps to keep
your brain as healthy as possible.”
example, you can remember
new names and discuss current
events. Getting involved in
PD circles is another way to
connect. Find an activity that
fits your schedule, interest and
comfort level — join a support
group, advocate for Parkinson’s
policy or participate in
research.
TRAIN YOUR BRAIN
Your brain is a bit like your
muscles — it needs a regular
workout to stay in shape.
Play “brain games” online; do
crossword or jigsaw puzzles
(get a group together so you
can socialize too!); learn to
speak a second language or play
a new instrument; or take up a
new hobby.
relieve them. Meditate, practice
mindfulness, go for daily walks,
or spend time gardening or
relaxing in nature.
SLEEP WELL
Researchers believe we store
memories and rejuvenate our
bodies during sleep. Not getting
enough rest can make it harder
to manage Parkinson’s and to
think clearly. (Most of us have
experienced the fogginess and
slowness that can follow a
poor night’s sleep.) Make sure
you sleep the recommended
number of hours each night
for someone your age. If you
have trouble sleeping (common
in PD), ask your doctor about
ways to improve your rest.
REDUCE STRESS CARE FOR MEDICAL
CONDITIONS
Everyone experiences stress in
different ways and to different
degrees. Common stressors
are work, family and balancing
the two. Stress can worsen
Parkinson’s symptoms and
cause temporary thinking and
memory changes. Identify
your stressors and find ways to Diabetes, high blood pressure
and high cholesterol can
damage brain blood vessels and
lead to thinking and memory
problems. Depression and
anxiety, common Parkinson’s
non-movement symptoms,
can cause or worsen cognitive
problems. If you have one of
these conditions, or you or a
loved one notice mood changes,
talk to your doctor. Treatment
strategies may include
diet adjustment, exercise,
medication and, for depression
and anxiety, talk therapy.
REVIEW YOUR
MEDICATIONS
Certain prescription and over-
the-counter medications, such
as the Parkinson’s drug Artane
(trihexyphenidyl), pain or sleep
pills, and even Benadryl, can
cause confusion. At every, or
every other visit, go through
your medication list with
your doctor. If any drug could
cause cognitive difficulties,
ask whether you can stop it
or decrease the dose. Always
speak with your doctor before
making changes or adding over-
the-counter medications or
supplements.
Stay tuned for more
information and tips on
Parkinson’s and cognition later
this year.
The medical information contained in this newsletter is for general information purposes only. The
Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research has a policy of refraining from advocating, endorsing
or promoting any drug therapy, course of treatment, or specific company or institution. It is crucial that
care and treatment decisions related to Parkinson’s disease and any other medical condition be made in
consultation with a physician or other qualified medical professional.
13
Spring/Summer 2019