Risk-free, no obligation consultation

Blog

Understanding the Five Stages of Parkinson’s Disease

April 6, 2016
Parkinson's Disease

More common in men, and more prevalent than muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, and Lou Gehrig’s disease combined, Parkinson’s disease impacts as many as 7 – 10 million people worldwide, with another 600,000 Americans diagnosed each year. And while each person’s experience with the disease varies in severity, there are five stages of progression that are typical for all. In honor of Parkinson’s Awareness Month, Home Matters  shares the following information:

Stage 1: Known as early-stage Parkinson’s, during this stage a person typically has only mild symptoms that may present as follows:

  • Symptoms are only on one side of the body
  • Symptoms are inconvenient, but not disabling
  • Uncontrolled tremors or shaking in one limb may be noticed
  • Friends and family can usually detect changes in the person’s posture, balance, and facial expressions

Stage 2: During the second stage of Parkinson’s, inability to perform normal physical tasks may become more apparent:

  • Symptoms will affect both sides of the body
  • The person has minimal disability, and usually encounters ambulatory or balance problems
  • Posture is affected

Stage 3: This stage is considered moderate Parkinson’s disease, and more significant disability will begin to develop:

  • There is a significant slowing of the body movements
  • Early impairment of equilibrium may result in the inability to walk straight or stand
  • There is generalized dysfunction that is moderately severe

Stage 4: Stage four represents advanced Parkinson’s disease and is accompanied by severe symptoms:

  • Rigidity and bradykinesia, or slow movements are often visible
  • The person is unable to complete daily tasks and typically cannot live alone
  • Tremors may lessen or disappear for unknown reasons during this time

Stage 5: The final stage of the disease usually takes over the patient’s physical movements:

  • The person usually experiences a general reduction in vitality and strength of the body and mind
  • The person may not be able to walk or stand
  • One-on-one care is required

Home Matters’s in home caregivers are fully trained in all aspects of senior home care, and can assist those with Parkinson’s and other conditions of aging to live fuller, more comfortable and independent lives, right at home. Whether it’s help with daily personal care, transportation and accompaniment to doctors’ appointments or to run errands, light housekeeping and meal preparation, or just a friendly companion to brighten up the day, our senior care services are tailored to each individual’s needs and preferences.

Share this article
About the author

Tyler Williams

As an Area Owner and Operator of a Home Matters Caregiving franchise, I am committed to ensuring exceptional outcomes for our valued clients and caregivers. My passion for elevating our service quality is matched by my role as a blogger and social media manager for the franchise, where I share insights, updates, and foster community engagement. Prior to senior care, I used my strategic communication and brand development skills as the Marketing Director of a regional bank. My diverse experience supports my commitment to excellence and innovation in both healthcare and digital communication.
Linkedin Profile
Related Posts

Looking for Senior Care Franchise?

Home Matters Caregiving

Customer care
“Ms. Rosie Lee did such an amazing job taking care of my grandfather. I honestly can say she made my grandfather such an happy person even while dealing with his mental illness.”
Marissa Rodriguez
“My grandma loves this company and so do we! Incredible service and care! Home matters has become a huge part of our family. Thank you so much you have made our lives so much better!”
Christopher I
“We just started using this service for my brother who had a traumatic brain injury. Irvin and Willis were extremely helpful navigating how to set up the service and work with my brothers particular needs.”
Heather Biggs
“This group of caring folks were there for me and my family when my dad transitioned. They are ALL truly a loving team and very professional through and through.”
El Soñador
“My grandma loves this company and so do we! Incredible service and care! Home matters has become a huge part of our family. Thank you so much you have made our lives so much better!”
Christopher I
“Ms. Rosie Lee did such an amazing job taking care of my grandfather. I honestly can say she made my grandfather such an happy person even while dealing with his mental illness.”
Marissa Rodriguez
“This group of caring folks were there for me and my family when my dad transitioned. They are ALL truly a loving team and very professional through and through.”
El Soñador
“We just started using this service for my brother who had a traumatic brain injury. Irvin and Willis were extremely helpful navigating how to set up the service and work with my brothers particular needs.”
Heather Biggs
“Home Matters is the best! This company has helped out with Care Giving and Companions for our residents. I have utilized them in 3 different Communities that I have worked for. I would highly recommend them. ”
ScottsBOM Scanner
“I can’t say enough about Jessica and Stephanie, who met with my parents and me to discuss our needs. I highly recommend Home Matters for all your care giving needs. Thank you to everyone who helped my Mom!”
Michael Kravetz
“Ms. Rosie Lee did such an amazing job taking care of my grandfather. I honestly can say she made my grandfather such an happy person even while dealing with his mental illness.”
Marissa Rodriguez
“My grandma loves this company and so do we! Incredible service and care! Home matters has become a huge part of our family. Thank you so much you have made our lives so much better!”
Christopher I
“We just started using this service for my brother who had a traumatic brain injury. Irvin and Willis were extremely helpful navigating how to set up the service and work with my brothers particular needs.”
Heather Biggs
“This group of caring folks were there for me and my family when my dad transitioned. They are ALL truly a loving team and very professional through and through.”
El Soñador
“My grandma loves this company and so do we! Incredible service and care! Home matters has become a huge part of our family. Thank you so much you have made our lives so much better!”
Christopher I
“Ms. Rosie Lee did such an amazing job taking care of my grandfather. I honestly can say she made my grandfather such an happy person even while dealing with his mental illness.”
Marissa Rodriguez
“This group of caring folks were there for me and my family when my dad transitioned. They are ALL truly a loving team and very professional through and through.”
El Soñador
“We just started using this service for my brother who had a traumatic brain injury. Irvin and Willis were extremely helpful navigating how to set up the service and work with my brothers particular needs.”
Heather Biggs
“Home Matters is the best! This company has helped out with Care Giving and Companions for our residents. I have utilized them in 3 different Communities that I have worked for. I would highly recommend them. ”
ScottsBOM Scanner
“I can’t say enough about Jessica and Stephanie, who met with my parents and me to discuss our needs. I highly recommend Home Matters for all your care giving needs. Thank you to everyone who helped my Mom!”
Michael Kravetz