If you checked all of the above, you’d be right!

Loss of sense of smell: Research has indicated that 90% of people with Parkinson’s have lost their sense of smell

Affects both young and old: The average age of onset is 60, but Parkinson’s can affect people as young as 30 or 40 (Young Onset)

Depression: Feeling sad, having less energy or losing interest in activities are common symptoms of Parkinson’s

Shaking or tremors: One of the most common symptoms of Parkinson’s. Dr. James Parkinson, who discovered the illness in 1817, called it the “Shaking Palsy”

Changes in thinking ability: Parkinson’s can affect one’s concentration, abstract thinking, judgment and memory

Slow movement: Movement is normally controlled by a chemical called dopamine which carries signals between the nerves in our brain. When cells that produce dopamine die, we move slowly.

Soft speech: Muscles that control speech can also be affected in Parkinson’s. This makes communication difficult. Speech therapy can help through exercises such as purposely speaking loudly.

Muscle stiffness and rigidity: Two common symptoms in Parkinson’s. Exercise can maintain and improve muscle strength in order to carry out daily activities.

Stooped posture: One of the first noticeable changes in Parkinson’s. Specific exercises can be done to reduce or prevent changes in posture

Small handwriting: For some people with Parkinson’s, handwriting becomes increasingly smaller and often illegible. Exaggerating the range of movement in the hand can help.

Difficulty with walking and balance: Regular activity and exercise can improve balance, reducing risk for falls.

Over 100,000 Canadians affected: Parkinson’s affects men and women from all ethnic backgrounds. As the population ages, it is expected that the numbers will increase.

Researchers are seeking a cure: Parkinson Canada understands the importance of investing in Canada’s talented researchers. Since 1981, we have invested over $16.8 million in Parkinson’s research, granting over 335 grants, fellowships and graduate awards. Parkinson Canada supports research that improves the quality of life of people living with Parkinson’s and focuses on finding the causes and a cure.