Is stem cell therapy effective for Parkinson’s after age 65?

Question

Hello doctor,

My mother (67) has Parkinson's disease, and her condition is worsening rapidly. Her neurologist mentioned that stem cell therapy might be an option, as her medications are no longer working well. She can barely walk now, and her tremors are constant. No one in our family really understands how stem cell therapy works. What kind of improvement could she realistically expect from this treatment? Could it slow the progression of the disease or even reverse some symptoms?

We are willing to pay out of pocket, but we need to know whether it is a worthwhile option for someone her age.

Please advise.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for your message and for being such a strong advocate for your mother. Parkinson’s disease can be incredibly challenging, especially as symptoms become more resistant to medication. I understand your concern and your hope in exploring other options like stem cell therapy.

To clarify, stem cell therapy for Parkinson’s disease is still considered experimental. The idea behind it is that stem cells might replace or repair the dopamine-producing neurons in the brain that are lost in Parkinson’s. However, while this sounds promising, the science is still in the early stages, with most studies conducted in clinical trials, and long-term safety and effectiveness are not yet fully established.

As for realistic expectations:

Reversal of symptoms is not something we can promise at this point.
Some early trials have shown mild to moderate improvements in motor function for select patients, but results vary widely.
There is no current evidence that stem cell therapy can halt or significantly slow disease progression in the long term.
The procedure may also carry risks, especially in older patients or those with other health conditions.

Given your mother’s age and the advanced stage of her disease, it is important to weigh the potential benefits against the costs, risks, and the fact that this therapy is not yet standard or approved in most countries.

If you are considering paying out of pocket, I strongly recommend doing so only within the context of a reputable clinical trial or a center with experience in neurodegenerative diseases. It may also be helpful to discuss other advanced options, such as deep brain stimulation (DBS), if not already considered, or adjustments to her current medical regimen under the care of a movement disorder specialist.

You are doing the right thing by asking questions and advocating for the best care. I encourage you to speak openly with her neurologist about realistic expectations and whether stem cell research is a suitable path for your mother’s case.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.