Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page. Here, we’ve compiled answers to the most common questions people have about Parkinson’s. Whether you’re looking for detailed information or quick answers, this resource is designed to help you find answers. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to contact us directly.
Questions
- Do people die from Parkinson’s?
- Is there a cure for Parkinson’s?
- At what age do people get Parkinson’s?
- How is Parkinson’s treated?
- Will I be able to continue to drive if I have Parkinson’s?
- Will I be able to carry on working?
- Can I carry on with my activities/exercises/hobbies/clubs?
- Can I claim any benefits?
- How many people have Parkinson’s?
Do people die from Parkinson’s?
The general consensus is that Parkinson’s disease does not directly cause people to die, but the more advanced symptoms can lead to increased mobility difficulties and poor health. Advanced Parkinson’s can make some people more vulnerable to serious and life-threatening infections. However, with advances in treatment, most people with Parkinson’s disease now have a more or less normal life expectancy.
Is there a cure for Parkinson’s?
At the moment there is no cure for Parkinson’s but medication to manage the symptoms. Huge amounts of money is spent on research and occasionally there will be a flurry of excitement about ‘discoveries’ which you then, disappointingly hear nothing else about. It is worth getting involved in research though! Ask your consultant or nurse if there is any opportunity locally as this can help forward understanding of the disease.
At what age do people get Parkinson’s?
The risk of developing Parkinson’s increases with age. Most people are over 50 when diagnosed but younger people get it too.
How is Parkinson’s treated?
Medication is usually the main treatment, but a multi-disciplinary team approach is the best practice. You may not need all the healthcare professionals at once, but you should have access to:
- Parkinson’s Nurse – we are lucky in Northamptonshire to have a few! Telephone: 0300 0272 277
- Neuro physiotherapy – your nurse or GP can refer you to your Neuro Physio. If you have already been referred, you can telephone: 0300 0271 310
- Occupational Therapist – for aids and adaptations. You can self-refer online or telephone: 0300 126 100
- Speech and Language Therapy – your nurse or GP can refer you but if you have seen them before you can call on 0300 0270 027
- Adult Social Care Northamptonshire: For non-medical support. Telephone: 0300 126 1000
Will I be able to continue to drive if I have Parkinson’s?
Having Parkinson’s doesn’t mean your licence will be affected. However, you do need to let DVLA know you have been diagnosed. They will then send you a self-assessment questionnaire for you to fill out and return. Call them on 0300 790 6802.
Obviously, if you do not feel safe driving you must not drive! Some medications can cause drowsiness and if you have any concerns then discuss this with your GP, Parkinson’s Nurse or Consultant. You must also tell your insurance company that you have been diagnosed. We do not know of anyone who has had their premium increased due to this disclosure.
Will I be able to carry on working?
Having Parkinson’s doesn’t mean you have to stop working. Work is important for many reasons, not just income. Many people really enjoy their work and gain great rewards such as self-esteem, confidence, positive routines, connection to others and personal satisfaction. If you need to or want to carry on working perhaps small changes could be made to accommodate your particular needs. Your employer has a legal duty to provide ‘reasonable adjustments’ to support you if necessary.
However, if you decide to stop working it is important to consider the implications, such as the financial and emotional impact. It is worth knowing that sometimes when people are first diagnosed it can take a while for the treatment to become effective. On some occasions for certain people the first type of medications given may be ineffective. However, changing to a different type may do the trick. Therefore, it is very important not to make any rash decisions before the medication effect has stabilised.
Can I carry on with my activities/exercises/hobbies/clubs?
YES YES YES It is really important to keep doing the things you enjoy doing. Staying or getting fit and keeping active is extremely beneficial in fighting the symptoms of Parkinson’s.
Can I claim any benefits?
You may be entitled to benefits such as Personal Independent Payment (PIP) and Attendance Allowance if your Parkinson’s symptoms are affecting your day to day activities. Your spouse, partner, relative or friend may also be eligible to claim carer’s allowance if they assist you. You may also be eligible for other financial support and a blue badge if you are having mobility issues.
You can find out more on our Benefits page.
How many people have Parkinson’s
In the UK there are approximately 153,000 with the condition and each year more than 10,000 people are diagnosed. This figure increases yearly with diagnoses rising gradually due to our growing and ageing population.