Step-by-Step: Why Home Instead Took a Walk
Parkinson’s is a chronic progressive disease that gradually deteriorates a person’s capabilities over time. The most common indicators of Parkinson’s are tremors, rhythmic shaking, as well as a gradual slowness of movement. Parkinson’s disease is named after James Parkinson who first described this chronic, progressive disease in 1817 as predominantly characterized by stooped posture, tremors, and rigidity. Currently, there are an estimated 10 million people worldwide living with Parkinson’s disease, 1 million people in the United States, and 60,000 in San Diego. Majority of those affected show symptoms after age 50, with 10% of those diagnosed with Parkinson’s before age 50, known as “Early Onset Parkinson’s Disease.” (APDA, 2021).
What makes Parkinson’s unique is the area in the brain that it affects: the substantia nigra. This area of the brain is where dopamine, a specific type of neurotransmitter, is produced. The loss of dopamine is the primary initiator of Parkinson’s. However, there is a silver lining: The loss of dopamine can be treated. This is why Parkinson’s Disease research is very important. Through funding research, we can help produce medicine to enhance dopamine levels and provide the best care.
Parkinson’s disease can be treated to make symptoms more manageable for those who experience this change in their lives. Supporting this treatment and research of the disease enhances the lives of aging adults and their families, which is also the mission here at Home Instead. As result, we intentionally make it a priority to be involved in supporting such life-enhancing research as much as possible.
Home Instead San Diego recently attended the annual fundraiser 5k put on by the Parkinson’s Association of San Diego at Liberty Station: their Step-by-Step Walk. Walks like Step-by-Step are a fun way to stay healthy, be a part of the San Diego community, and most importantly, continue to enhance the lives of aging adults and their families by supporting Parkinson’s research. Home Instead San Diego shows their support for the mission of the Parkinson’s Association of San Diego by joining in, Step-by-Step.
To learn more about the Parkinson’s Association of San Diego and their mission, click here
