Previous Section
Introduction to Parkinson's Disease
Complications of Parkinson's Disease
Patients with Parkinson's disease are at increased risk of falls as discussed above.
As Parkinson's disease progresses, the severity of symptoms increases as well. For example, falling becomes a greater problem as balance and walking deteriorate; or nighttime problems may increase the frequency of urination, muscular pain, and difficulty moving in bed which compounds the issue of fatigue. Each stage requires careful evaluation in order to optimize the quality of life for the patient. In older people, quality of life may be even more affected because of impairments that occur with the "normal" aging process which compound the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
In advanced stages, the need for allied supportive health professionals increases since there are more severe disabilities which require more physical and emotional support.
