Daniel E. Davis, President and CEO of the National Parkinson's Foundation of Central Ohio, joined us on Senior Agenda on September 26th to discuss the signs, symptoms, and progression of the disease. Listen here. Other guests discussed the experiences of family members and friends struggling with the disease.
Although Parkinson's Disease continues to be the 2nd most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder in the U.S., there is still no standard clinical tests available to identify the disease. The disease often goes unrecognized until late in the progression. There is also still no cure. During the program we learned that symptoms range from tremors to slowed movement (bradykinesia) to impaired posture and balance to rigidity including "freezing." We also learned about some treatment options and the need for public support in terms of raising awareness and donations for research. Parkinson's is a painful, progressive disease that deserves our attention. Learn more from the National Parkinson's Foundation.
Several famous folks have Parkinson's Disease including Muhammad Ali and Micheal J. Fox pictured above. Muhammad Ali was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 1984 at the age of 42. It is widely believed that professional athletes like football players and boxers develop the disease due to brain damage caused from multiple concussions or blows to the head. Learn about the Muhammad Ali Parkinson's Center. Micheal J. Fox was diagnosed at age 30 and told he would be lucky to still be working at age 40, but today he is 52 years old and still working. In fact, the day this edition of Senior Agenda aired, his new comedy, "The Micheal J. Fox Show" premiered on NBC. Reviews were favorable. Learn about the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.
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