Parkinson disease

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More than 8,000 Albertans are affected by Parkinson disease. Some start showing symptoms in their 30s and 40s. 

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The disease devastates the nervous system, causing tremors and making it hard to move, walk and balance. 

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It robs people of their voices, leaving behind only a whisper. Even swallowing is difficult. Parkinson's changes a person's moods, thinking and concentration, and makes it hard to sleep. 

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The emotional, physical and social impact of Parkinson disease leaves people disconnected from the world, and often leads to depression.

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Fast Facts about Parkinson disease:

• The average age of diagnosis is approximately 56;

• 20% of people with Parkinson disease are diagnosed before 50 years of age;

• 50% of those with Parkinson disease suffer from depression;

• 40% will develop difficulty chewing and swallowing;

• 89% will develop difficulty speaking; many develop a soft voice and can barely whisper; and

• The average monthly expenses for one person living with Parkinson disease is $1,000 to cover costs of support services, education, transportation and medication.

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