But problems with urinary retention, dry mouth, constipation and confusion in older adults often become intolerable. Teach patients that tremor, while visible and distressing, is usually self-limiting and is actually less of a health risk than the gait and balance components of their disease. Between 30 percent and 50 percent of Parkinson s patients experience anxiety disorders or clinical depression during the course of their illnesses. This is thought to be endogenous in the majority of patients, as a result of the interactions between dopamine and other neurotransmitters. While the mainstay of Parkinson s disease management is pharmacotherapy, allied health services are also beneficial at crucial points.
Dysarthric patients benefit from speech therapy.
The Lee Silverman Voice Treatment method was pioneered at the University of Colorado in Boulder, and its techniques can increase voice volume and clarity in Parkinson s patients. Physical and occupational therapy can also be valuable. Some medical centers now offer the services of a geriatric assessment team that visits a patient s home and makes recommendations to prevent falls and maximize self-reliance. The Parkinson s disease patient faces unique stresses. Victims of any chronic health condition must adjust to their own reactions and those of family members and close friends.