Thank you to Susan Chipman, PhD, client of The Law Firm of Evan H. Farr, P.C., who shared her research on this subject.
Patients with Parkinson's disease exhibit difficulty moving
and tremors, but one aspect of their condition that is often overlooked is
cognitive impairment. About one-third to
one-half of those with Parkinson's exhibit some signs of cognitive impairment
at the time they are diagnosed, but over time nearly all patients will
experience substantial cognitive decline.
Unlike with Alzheimer's and other dementias, patients with
Parkinson's don't lose their memory. Instead, they may develop trouble with making
decisions, planning, and controlling their emotions, and often exhibit changes
in personality as a result.
With Alzheimer's disease, the patient often stops
recognizing family. "With Parkinson's, it's like the family doesn't
recognize [the patient] anymore," says Thomas Montine, a neuropathologist
who heads the Parkinson's disease research center at the University of
Washington in Seattle.
Medical experts are increasingly recognizing the disease's
impact on cognition but research has been slow, in part because of the
difficulty in sorting out the disease's movement issues from the cognitive
ones. Scientists are currently working
on a way to tag biomarkers in living patients to see if the presence of these
markers in brain scans tracks with the progression of their Parkinson’s. The
test group of 150 Parkinson's patients will contribute samples of blood and
spinal fluid, and undergo neuroimaging each year. While testing this group,
they are also looking for genetic markers of the disease, as well.
Do you or a loved one have Parkinson’s Disease? At The Fairfax Elder Law Firm of Evan
H. Farr, P.C., we are dedicated to easing the
financial and emotional burden on those suffering from Parkinson’s Disease and
their loved ones. We can help you
prepare for your future financial and long-term care needs. Call 703-691-1888 to make an appointment for
a free consultation.
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