Parkinson's Signs May Be Seen Years Before Diagnosis

An examination of health insurance data revealed that early Parkinson's disease symptoms could appear six years before a diagnosis. A neurological disorder, Parkinson's disease progresses slowly over several years.

The combined direct and indirect cost of Parkinson's, including treatment, social security payments, and lost income, is estimated to be nearly $25 billion per year in the United States alone, according to the Parkinson's Foundation. Medications alone cost an average of $2,500 a year, and therapeutic surgery can cost up to $100,000 per person.

Parkinson's - Leading Cause of Long-Term Health Care

The disease is one of the leading causes of long-term health care. Attention to the condition has dramatically increased over the years because of Michael J. Fox and other celebrities who have been suffering from Parkinson's.

Long-term health care costs are exploding nationwide, significantly impacting a family's finances - LTC NEWS Cost of Care Calculator. The cost of long-term health care is not the only problem, as chronic illness and aging also affect the family.

Growing Numbers of People Afflicted with Parkinson's 

After Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease is the most common neurodegenerative condition. The foundation reports that 60,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson's every year. Nearly one million people in the U.S. live with Parkinson's disease. By 2030, it is anticipated that this number will reach 1.2 million.

While Parkinson's disease is more commonly diagnosed in older adults, it is not necessarily directly related to aging. In fact, many individuals are diagnosed with Parkinson's disease before the age of 50, and it can affect people of all ages. Michael J. Fox is a good example.

Fox, who was diagnosed at age 29, has become the face of Parkinson's. He started the Michael J. Fox Foundation in 2000, which has since become "the world's largest non-profit funder of Parkinson's drug development," according to the foundation's website. Fox has had several setbacks, including surgery to remove a spinal tumor and a fall which shattered his arm. But Fox remains optimistic, knowing that research may someday cure or provide treatment for the disease.

Research is being done on several fronts. Newly published research led by Anette Schrag, MD, Ph.D., of University College London in England and colleagues was published in JAMA Neurology. An examination of health insurance data revealed that early Parkinson's disease symptoms could appear six years before a diagnosis.

Potential future treatment would benefit reaching people very early in the disease progression. It was already known that some patients diagnosed with Parkinson's had symptoms preceding the diagnosis of the condition. Older research indicated that individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's had evidence of a loss of muscle movements, tremors, rigidity, imbalance, or abnormal posture.

Daily chores requiring both motor and non-motor skills, such as cleaning, cooking, managing money, and shopping, showed evidence of decline before the more physically demanding tasks showed more classic Parkinson's symptoms that preceded the official diagnosis. 

Early Signs of Parkinson's

Parkinson's disease might be difficult to diagnose in oneself or a loved one. The disease may manifest in any of the ten ways listed below. While none of these symptoms alone should cause concern, if you experience any symptoms, you should schedule a consultation with your doctor. Remember that some of these symptoms could be benign or related to another treatable health problem.

1. Tremor - A slight shaking or tremor in your finger, thumb, hand, or chin should be investigated and not ignored.

2. Loss of Smell - COVID-19 infection is noted for a loss of smell, but if you don't have COVID and have noticed more trouble smelling foods like bananas, dill pickles, or licorice, be sure to see your doctor.

3. Small Handwriting - Micrographia, a form of Parkinson's disease, can cause changes in handwriting. A significant decrease in handwriting size or a change in the arrangement of words on a page, such as smaller letter sizes and more words written in close proximity, can indicate Micrographia.

4. Mobility Problems - An early sign can be stiffness or pain in the shoulder or hips. People will often say their feet seem "stuck to the floor." Many people say their arms no longer swing when they walk. These are signs that should be discussed with a doctor.

5. Sleep Problems - Thrashing around in bed or acting out dreams when you are deeply asleep can be a sign of early Parkinson's. 

6. Constipation - You should consult your doctor if you're having trouble moving your bowels because this could be an early indicator of Parkinson's disease.

7. Mad Expression on Your Face - Facial masking is the term used to describe a serious, unhappy, or angry expression on your face, even when you are not feeling down or angry. If friends and family have mentioned this to you, don't ignore it; see your doctor. 

8. Speaking Softly - If a person's voice becomes soft, sounds breathy, or is hoarse, there can be a medical reason for the change. Consult your doctor if you notice a change in your voice to determine whether Parkinson's disease may be to blame.

9. Fainting or Dizziness - Low blood pressure can cause fainting or dizziness and has been connected to Parkinson's disease. A recent change where someone feels dizzy when they stand up out of a chair, it could be Parkinson's, and medical attention should be sought.

10. Stooping or Hunching Over - Several health issues can cause stooping, leaning, or slouching; however, it could be a sign of Parkinson's disease.

The average age that people are diagnosed with Parkinson's is 70 years old. However, there is a small group of people with early-onset Parkinson's (like Michael J. Fox). Men are also more likely to develop the disease than women. 

Prepared for Aging and Chronic Illness?

While aging is not a direct cause of Parkinson's disease, it is crucial for older adults to be aware of the risk factors associated with the disease and to seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, or difficulty with balance or coordination. Early diagnosis and treatment can help individuals with Parkinson's disease manage their symptoms and maintain their quality of life. Additionally, engaging in healthy lifestyle habits such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep may also help reduce the risk of developing Parkinson's disease and other age-related health conditions.

Retirement planning must account for aging, chronic illnesses, mobility issues, dementia, and frailty. Long-term health care is costly and becomes more likely as you age. With long-term health care costs increasing rapidly nationwide, the cost of care would adversely impact your family and finances. 

Many individuals are shocked to learn that typical health insurance, including Medicare, only pays a small portion of long-term care costs. The lack of planning will often cause a family crisis. All of this can be avoided with simple planning before retirement.

Parkinson's disease or other aging health issues cannot be avoided, but Long-Term Care Insurance can help you become less reliant on others. 

What Is Long-Term Care Insurance & What Does It Cover?

The insurance protects your assets and income while giving your loved ones more time to be together rather than taking care of you. When you have LTC coverage, you are in charge and will have access to the high-quality care services of your choice, including in-home care.

Keep in mind, however, that Long-Term Care Insurance is medically underwritten - meaning you cannot wait until you get diagnosed with Parkinson's or other health problems to get coverage. 

Most people get their coverage in their 40s or 50s. Many experts suggest addressing the costs and burdens that come with aging as a key part of a retirement plan. Be sure to seek professional help from a Long-Term Care Insurance specialist to help you find appropriate and affordable coverage. A specialist will navigate underwriting rules, pricing, and benefit options from the several top-rated insurance companies that offer coverage. This way, you will have accurate quotes to consider and review. Even a small policy can be beneficial in reducing the burden otherwise placed on those you love.