PARKINSON'S DISEASE & MOVEMENT DISORDERS CENTER OF BOCA RATON

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a brain disease that is characterized as a neurodegenerative condition, which means the brain slowly declines in function over time.The National Institutes of Health and National Institutes of Aging defines Parkinson’s as a brain disorder that is characterized by shaking of the arms and legs, stiffness, and difficulty with walking, balance, as well as with coordination. The symptoms of Parkinson’s disease tend to begin slowly and gradually and get worse over time. As the disease continues to progress, people who are affected can have difficulty with memory and cognitive function as well as more trouble with communication. In addition to mental status and behavioral changes, people with PD can also experience sleep problems, depression, and fatigue. Both men and women can have Parkinson’s disease yet the condition affects ~50% more men than women.

To learn more about resources and support in the Boca Raton, Florida area, visit PAREF. The Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s Education & Research Foundation (PAREF) is a 501(3)c not-for-profit charitable organization whose mission is to support research initiatives, educational programs, supportive services, and community outreach for patients, caregivers, and families with Parkinson’s & Alzheimer’s Disease. PAREF specifically seeks to raise community awareness of need for earlier, accurate diagnosis; of new and emerging treatments; of opportunities to participate in groundbreaking research to slow or stop progression, to find a cure, and to develop more effective and safer medications; and of available educational and supportive services.