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Disease and aging can be frightening. But when we embrace them instead of fearing them, each new day becomes a celebration rather than a burden. At Gateway Gardens Assisted Living and Memory Care in Winder, GA, we walk alongside our dear residents living with Parkinson’s—not by shielding them from the realities of the disease, but by facing it together. We help them, and they help us, celebrate each sunrise as the gift it truly is.

Understanding Parkinson’s

Parkinson’s disease is often misunderstood as simply a “tremor disease” or a condition that only slows movement. In reality, it can present in many different ways. Knowing the range of symptoms helps families better understand the care their loved one needs, both now and as the disease progresses.

Common Symptoms of Parkinson’s

Tremors – Often beginning in the hands and arms, tremors may appear as spasms, jerks, or tics. They usually occur when the body is at rest and may lessen with movement.

Trouble moving or walking – Slowness of movement (bradykinesia) affects the arms, legs, and body. Many patients lose the natural arm swing when walking. Rigidity, or stiffness in the limbs, causes pain and contributes to stooping or hunching over.

Sleep difficulties – Falling asleep, staying asleep, and achieving restful sleep are common struggles. REM Sleep Behavior Disorder may cause kicking, punching, or shouting during sleep.

Pain – Up to 85% of patients experience some form of pain. This may include:

• Neuropathic (nerve) pain
• Musculoskeletal pain
• Pain from dystonia (uncontrollable muscle contractions)
• Restlessness or quivering (akathisia)
• Digestive discomfort
• Primary parkinsonian pain

Constipation and gastrointestinal issues – Slow digestion may lead to constipation, bloating, gas, heartburn, chest pain, or shortness of breath.

Other symptoms – Reduced facial expression, loss of smell, softer voice, handwriting changes, dizziness, fainting, and apathy.

Treatment and Support

Parkinson’s affects every individual differently, and often requires a care team that may include primary care physicians, neurologists, pain specialists, orthopedic surgeons, and therapists. At Gateway Gardens, we consider ourselves an extension of that care team—providing daily support, encouragement, and skilled assistance.

Early treatment is critical to address dropping dopamine levels caused by nerve cell damage. While medications can help manage dopamine levels, lifestyle and therapy interventions also play a key role.

• Exercise: Physical activity has been shown to slow progression, improve sleep, and strengthen cognitive health.
• Pain management: Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs may be helpful, along with therapy support.
• Therapy support: Physical, occupational, and speech therapy can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Understanding Risk Factors

While the exact cause of Parkinson’s remains unclear, certain factors increase risk:

• Gender: Men are statistically more likely to develop Parkinson’s than women.
• Age: Risk increases with aging.
• Genetics: Certain gene mutations can raise risk, but not all carriers develop the disease.

Standing Together

If you’ve read this far, you are already taking an important step—seeking knowledge, investing in care, and making the most of life despite the challenges Parkinson’s brings.

At Gateway Gardens Assisted Living and Memory Care in Winder, GA, we’re here to support you through every stage of the journey. Whether you have questions about assisted living or memory care, or simply need encouragement, know that you are not alone. We live this every day—with love, skill, and hope.