Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological disorder in which brain cells degenerate and are lost, but its impact goes far beyond the obvious. Physical symptoms can be treated through medical intervention and complementary therapy, but to maintain a quality of life, the emotional, psychological and intellectual wellbeing of the person with PD will need careful managing too.
Many people with Parkinson’s complain that their quality of life becomes compromised. Of course, this is a very personal thing and only the individual affected is able to form a judgement about how his or her quality of life has altered. It is possible to maintain a good quality of life, simply by embracing some lifestyle changes. Whilst these changes may be very small in the early stages, they can become more significant as the condition progresses.
Accepting change is an important step in successfully managing Parkinson’s. It is often challenging at first; it’s frustrating when you are forced to play nine holes of golf instead of a usual 18, or when you have to take a shorter walk than normal. But being able to adapt – for example in your personal relationships, ways in which you travel or spend leisure time, and in your care and nutrition – means you can continue to lead a fulfilling, happy, good quality of life. Having Parkinson’s does not mean everything is over.
There is no doubt that a positive outlook, with a determination to overcome obstacles, will help you in adapting to life with Parkinson’s and, given time and an optimistic attitude, you will be able to continue to pursue the activities and relationships that make your life enjoyable and meaningful.
The debate on quality of life has been around for a millennium already – Aristotle gave it much thought in his Nicomachean Ethics (ten books based on Aristotle’s lectures about virtue and morality, thought to be edited by his son, Nicomachus) and concluded that happiness is central to a satisfying life.
