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What is early-onset Parkinson’s Disease?
Early-onset Parkinson’s Disease is when you or a loved one who is 21-50 years old receives a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. It can also be referred to as young-onset Parkinson’s disease. While the symptoms of the disease are mostly the same at whatever age it develops. Younger people will experience the disease differently due to their unique life circumstances. Managing the disease can be particularly challenging for a younger person and their family from a medical, psychological, and social standpoint.
Symptoms of young-onset Parkinson’s disease
Young-onset Parkinson’s Disease is diagnosed similarly to late-onset Parkinson’s with symptoms including:
- Tremors of the hands, arms, legs, jaw, and face
- Rigidity of the limbs and trunk
- Bradykinesia
- Postural instability or impaired balance and coordination
People with Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease may experience the same non-motor symptoms as others with Parkinson’s Disease, including:
- Depression
- Sleep disturbances
- Changes in memory and thinking
- Constipation or urinary problems
How is young-onset Parkinson’s Disease different?
People diagnosed with YOPD have a more frequent family history of Parkinson’s disease and longer survival. People living with young-onset PD may experience:
- Slower progression of PD symptoms
- More side effects from dopaminergic medications
- More frequent dystonia (cramping and abnormal postures) such as the arching of the foot
Chatting to others in a similar situation to you can be helpful. This list of UK-wide online support groups, run by and for younger people, will help you to connect with other younger people with Parkinson’s.
How can Cavendish Homecare help?
We understand that at such a sensitive time, specialist nursing care and trustworthy support can make a huge difference to how you cope with a Parkinson’s diagnosis. Our team of Homecare Managers, Registered Nurses, and Carers have a wealth of experience and are experts at providing practical and emotional support and care.
If you would like to enquire about our specialist Parkinson’s disease home care, contact us on, 02030085210 or email us at info@cavendishhomecare.com.
About the Author…
Misha Zemkova
Operations Assistant
As a volunteer at North London Action for the Homeless, Misha stands out for her exceptional ability to connect with people through active listening and meaningful dialogue. With seven years of invaluable experience as a Team Leader and Key Worker for adults with diverse learning disabilities, including cerebral palsy, dementia, Down syndrome, and brain injuries, Misha brings extensive experience and a deep understanding of caring for individuals with unique needs.
Now a pivotal member of the operations team at Cavendish Homecare, Misha actively supports Nurse Managers and the Bookings team in delivering high-quality care. She has demonstrated outstanding commitment to supporting charity partner Cruse Bereavement through events such as the Virtual TCS London Marathon and Light up the Night.
