How can I help my mother with Parkinson's disease?

Question

Hello, Doctor,

My mother, who is 68 years old, has recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. She initially reported to the doctor with complaints of tremor in the right hand as well as difficulties performing fine movements like dressing up, writing, and other daily tasks.

Her neurologist has prescribed her medication called Carbidopa-Levodopa, for which we have noticed little improvement as far as the symptoms go. She has begun having a shuffling walk, and she has actually fallen twice in the past month due to her walking problems.

Another thing that scares us is that she now has a soft, monotone voice, which makes it difficult for us to understand what she is saying. The most unfortunate thing to happen to her is to see her personality change to the extent where she has become withdrawn and depressed.

She is an active and independent person, but now she requires assistance for such simple chores as cooking and taking a bath. We are her main caretakers, yet we are not sure about what to expect from the course of this illness.

Are there any other drugs that can be helpful for her treatment?
Is there any physical therapy needed?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Carbidopa-Levodopa continues to be the most effective drug for Parkinson’s disease; however, adjustments may be required in terms of dosage and timing in order to obtain the optimal outcomes, especially during the first few months. In case she shows insignificant improvements, her doctor can increase or decrease the dosage, change the frequency of doses, or even try some other medications like dopamine agonists, monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B) inhibitors, and catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitors.

Alternative treatment options also play an essential role -

Physical therapy will assist her with improving her gait, balance, and muscle tone and, consequently, decrease the risk of falling.
Speech therapy is very helpful for a soft or monotone voice and can also help with swallowing if that becomes an issue.
Depression is common in Parkinson’s and should be addressed early with counseling, social engagement, and, if needed, antidepressant medication that is safe for Parkinson’s patients.

Supportive care like home safety modifications, fall prevention strategies, and caregiver support will make daily life safer and less stressful. With a tailored combination of medication adjustments, therapy, and emotional support, many people maintain good quality of life for years after diagnosis.

I hope this helps.

Thank you, and take care.

Regards.