In-person check-in begins at 12 p.m. and the program starts at 1:00 p.m. A complimentary boxed lunch will be provided. Please call Jessica at (312) 762-5706 if you have any dietary requirements.
Living with Parkinson's can be challenging, but there are many things you can do to maintain and improve your quality of life. This program will provide you with information to help you find the balance between a proactive approach and wondering what lies ahead. We will cover common Parkinson's disease (PD) medications, their benefits, potential side effects, and the need for adjustments over time. We will also emphasize the importance of a well-rounded care plan that includes exercise and social engagement to combat isolation. Together, these factors can greatly improve the quality of life for those living with PD.
Speakers
Danny Bega, MD, MSCI
Northwestern Medicine Parkinson's Disease & Movement Disorders Center, A Parkinson's Foundation Center of Excellence
Katie Fagan, MSW, LCSW, CDP
Northwestern Medicine Parkinson's Disease & Movement Disorders Center, A Parkinson's Foundation Center of Excellence
Adam Burns, PT, DPT, NCS
Allied Health Supervisor, Burr Ridge, Outpatient Center
Senior I Physical Therapist
APTA Board Certified Neurologic Clinical Specialist
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab
There is no charge to attend, but registration is required. This program is open to people with Parkinson's, their families, friends, and the community.
Parkinson’s Champions athletes raise funds and awareness for the Parkinson’s Foundation while competing in some of the world’s most popular races. Every step we take brings us closer to a future without Parkinson’s disease, because Parkinson’s isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon.
La enfermedad de Parkinson (EP) afecta a todos de manera diferente. Aunque los síntomas pueden variar, todas las personas con la EP experimentan una pérdida gradual de las células cerebrales que producen la dopamina, una sustancia química esencial para controlar el movimiento y otras funciones corporales importantes.
No se sabe muy bien por qué se produce esta pérdida de células, pero los científicos creen que es el resultado de una combinación de factores genéticos, ambientales y de estilo de vida. Comprender el papel de la genética en el Parkinson está ayudando a los investigadores a desarrollar nuevos tratamientos y a acercarse a una cura.
Datos relevantes
Los factores genéticos pueden aumentar el riesgo de desarrollar la EP.
Entre un 10% y un 15% de todas las personas con la EP tienen un vínculo genético con el Parkinson.
La participación en estudios genéticos ayuda a los científicos a saber más acerca de las causas y la progresión de la EP.
Pruebas genéticas:
Los capacitan a usted, a su equipo médico y a su familia para tomar decisiones informadas con respecto a la salud.
Pueden ayudarle a saber si es elegible para participar en estudios genéticos.
Podrían tener costos si se realizan fuera de un estudio.
Estudios genéticos:
Algunos ofrecen pruebas genéticas y asesoramiento gratuitos.
Los resultados se utilizan para avanzar en la investigación.
Pueden conducir a terapias específicas adaptadas a sus genes.
Entendiendo la genética
La genética es el estudio de cómo los rasgos, como el color de los ojos y la estatura, se transmiten de padres a hijos. Comienza con nuestro ADN, "un libro de cocina" que contiene unos 23,000 genes o "recetas" que determinan quiénes somos. Cada gen da instrucciones para fabricar proteínas, esenciales para reparar el cuerpo, reforzar el sistema inmunitario y realizar otras tareas importantes.
Los genes pueden presentar cambios llamados variantes, que heredamos de nuestros padres. La mayoría de las variantes son inofensivas, pero algunas pueden afectar las proteínas y aumentar el riesgo de problemas de salud. A fin de cuentas, nuestra salud depende de la combinación de nuestros genes, estilo de vida y entorno.
Cómo influye la genética en el Parkinson
Los cambios en ciertos genes, como LRRK2, GBA y SNCA, pueden aumentar el riesgo de desarrollar Parkinson o influir en la evolución de los síntomas en personas ya diagnosticadas.
Los investigadores están estudiando cómo varían estos cambios genéticos entre diferentes grupos para entender por qué el Parkinson es más común en algunas comunidades. Esto podría darnos pistas sobre por qué la EP varía de una persona a otra.
Pruebas genéticas
Las pruebas genéticas pueden ayudar a identificar los riesgos de desarrollar Parkinson u orientar las opciones de tratamiento.
Generalmente consisten en un análisis de muestras de sangre o saliva para detectar cambios en el ADN o las proteínas.
Algunas pueden hacerse en casa y enviarse por correo, mientras que otras requieren una visita en persona al consultorio.
Los costos y la cobertura de seguros pueden variar.
Antes de hacerse una prueba genética, hable con su médico sobre el proceso y sus posibles implicaciones. Los asesores genéticos pueden ayudarle a saber qué esperar, abordar las emociones que surjan, comprender los resultados y guiar los siguientes pasos.
Estudio genético de la Parkinson’s Foundation
PD GENEration: Trazando el futuro de la enfermedad de Parkinson (PD GENEration: Mapping the Future of Parkinson’s Disease) es un estudio global que ofrece pruebas genéticas y asesoramiento sin costo a las personas con la EP. Puede inscribirse en línea y dar una muestra de sangre utilizando un sencillo kit casero o acudir a un centro participante.
Los participantes en PD GENEration no sólo contribuyen al avance de la investigación, sino que también reciben algo a cambio: los resultados de sus pruebas. El estudio utiliza una prueba genética confiable y segura para identificar cambios en genes relacionados con la EP. También puede elegir que lo contacten si surge nueva información sobre sus resultados.
Los estudios actuales buscan tratamientos para personas con cambios o variantes específicos en genes como LRRK2, GBA o SNCA. Los investigadores creen que enfocarse en estos genes puede conducir a terapias mejores personalizadas. Conocer su genética puede ayudarle a averiguar si reúne los requisitos para estos estudios.
Consejos sobre pruebas e investigación genéticas
Comuníquese con nuestra Línea de Ayuda para preguntas sobre las pruebas genéticas y para aprender más sobre el estudio PD GENEration.
Sepa qué esperar. Para la mayoría, la prueba saldrá negativa para cambios genéticos relacionados con la EP, pero esta información es clave para avanzar en la comprensión del Parkinson.
Manténgase al día con las investigaciones genéticas. Estudios como PD GENEration ofrecen valiosos conocimientos sobre la EP.
Educational Events
Let's Talk About It
1:00 pm to 3:00 pm EST
Free
Check-in starts at 12 p.m. and the program starts at 1 p.m.
There are many non-motor challenges associated with Parkinson's disease that may not always be easy to discuss. With a focus on sleep issues and falls, this program will provide strategies for coping and talking about it with healthcare providers or loved ones. We will hear about how Parkinson's affects sleep quality and learn about the neurobiology behind fall risk.
Speakers
Mark Garwood, MD
Assistant Professor of Neurology, Michigan Medicine
Vikas Kotagal, MD, MS
Associate Professor of Neurology, Michigan Medicine
Katie Afton
Coordinator of Rock Steady Boxing at TITLE A2
There is no charge to attend, but registration is required. This program is open to people with Parkinson's, their families, friends, and the community.
This program is done in partnership with Michigan Medicine and registration information will be shared with them.
Parkinson’s Champions athletes raise funds and awareness for the Parkinson’s Foundation while competing in some of the world’s most popular races. Every step we take brings us closer to a future without Parkinson’s disease, because Parkinson’s isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon.
Sleep disturbances are a common and often challenging symptom of Parkinson’s disease (PD). This program explores three prevalent nighttime interruptions—Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD), and insomnia—that can affect individuals with PD and their care partners. This session will provide an in-depth look at the causes, symptoms, and practical management strategies for these sleep disorders.
Speaker
Roneil G. Malkani, MD
Associate Professor, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Neurologist, Northwestern Memorial Hospital
Specializing in Sleep Medicine and Movement Disorders
There is no charge to attend, but registration is required. This program is open to people with Parkinson's, their family, friends, and the community.
Parkinson’s Champions athletes raise funds and awareness for the Parkinson’s Foundation while competing in some of the world’s most popular races. Every step we take brings us closer to a future without Parkinson’s disease, because Parkinson’s isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon.
This program offers an introduction and basic overview of Parkinson’s disease (PD). PD varies from person to person and changes over time. Discover its causes, common symptoms, available treatments and effective strategies for managing them. Learn practical daily living tips to empower you to take charge of your health and to navigate the challenges of living with PD.
Speaker
Aditya Vikram Boddu, MD
Assistant Professor
Department of Neurology
Division of Movement Disorders
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
There is no charge to attend, but registration is required. This program is open to people with Parkinson's, their family, friends, and the community.
Parkinson’s Champions athletes raise funds and awareness for the Parkinson’s Foundation while competing in some of the world’s most popular races. Every step we take brings us closer to a future without Parkinson’s disease, because Parkinson’s isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon.
Navigating Parkinson’s disease involves looking ahead, learning and adjusting as symptoms and needs change. This program addresses some of the challenges of advancing PD and explores strategies to prepare for the future, including how to evolve your care plans and treatments throughout progression so you can live your best life with PD now.
Speakers
Nami Shah, MD
Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders
University of Rochester
Megan Hotchkiss, PT, DPT
Director of Clinical Education/Associate Professor
Ithaca College
Parkinson’s Champions athletes raise funds and awareness for the Parkinson’s Foundation while competing in some of the world’s most popular races. Every step we take brings us closer to a future without Parkinson’s disease, because Parkinson’s isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon.
Update: New Study Finds Drugs like Ozempic Ineffective for Parkinson’s Treatment
Update: February 21, 2025
This February, a new study published in the medical journal The Lancet has cast substantial doubt on the potential effectiveness of the diabetes drug class GLP-1 receptor agonists on treating Parkinson’s disease (PD).
A phase 3 clinical trial evaluated the GLP-1 receptor agonist called Exenatide. The study, consisting of 194 participants followed over two years, found that daily use of Exenatide did not provide any significant improvement for Parkinson’s symptoms compared to the placebo. This lack of improvement was consistent across age groups, sexes and PD stages. The researchers also performed pre- and post-study CT brain scans on select participants, finding that Exenatide did not impact dopamine activity in the PD-relevant regions of the brain.
These results suggest that the current GLP-1 receptor agonists medications are not effective as Parkinson’s disease-modifying treatments. As scientists learn more about the GLP-1 biological pathway and how it affects dopaminergic neuron health, there will likely be future development and trials of new GLP-1 drugs specifically designed for Parkinson’s.
January Article
Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder where dopamine-producing cells in the brain slowly break down over time. This loss of dopamine leads to a variety of movement symptoms, including tremors, stiffness, slow movement and difficulty with balance. While current treatments can help manage many PD symptoms, they do not address what causes the disease and therefore cannot prevent its progression.
Emerging research suggests a potential link between the brain's decreased sensitivity to the hormone insulin and the progression of Parkinson's. This observation has prompted researchers to investigate whether anti-diabetic medications that help manage insulin levels could potentially slow the progression of Parkinson's.
Trending drugs Ozempic and Wegovy belong to a class of diabetes medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which along with certain other diabetes medications have shown potential in reducing the risk of developing Parkinson’s in people with diabetes. These drugs mimic the action of a natural hormone that regulates blood sugar levels.
However, it is not known whether GLP-1 receptor agonists drugs may benefit people with Parkinson’s who don’t have diabetes.
A recent clinical trial, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, tested whether a GLP-1 agonist called lixisenatide could be a new treatment approach for people in the early stages of Parkinson's. The study showed that lixisenatide, which was approved by the FDA to help diabetics control blood sugar in 2016, helped movement symptoms in people with PD and may slow the progression of Parkinson’s.
As part of this study, a mouse model of Parkinson's demonstrated that lixisenatide improved movement issues and preserved brain cells, suggesting GLP-1 agonists may treat the underlying causes of PD.
Additionally, lixisenatide is not the only GLP-1 receptor agonist with potential therapeutic applications for Parkinson's — at least six other similar medications are currently being evaluated as a potential PD treatment. However, compared with liraglutide and semaglutide (such as Wegovy), lixisenatide appears to be more effective in crossing the blood brain barrier.
Study Results
The new study — a phase 2 clinical trial — enrolled 156 people with Parkinson’s, who were randomly assigned to receive lixisenatide or a placebo. The participants were diagnosed with Parkinson’s within the prior three years and were taking dopaminergic medications, such as levodopa, and continued to do so through the trial. For each participant, researchers assessed symptoms before treatment and after 12 months with daily injection of either placebo or lixisenatide.
After 12 months of treatment, people who received lixisenatide showed better results with their movement symptoms compared to those who received a placebo. While the movement symptoms of the lixisenatide group did not change compared to the start of the trial, the placebo group experienced worsening of their symptoms.
After 12 months of taking lixisenatide or a placebo, participants underwent two months without any treatment, with symptoms reassessed. The lixisenatide group showed better movement symptoms compared to the control group after two months, suggesting that lixisenatide may have a positive impact on disease progression.
Of note, those who received lixisenatide had more gastrointestinal side effects — 46% of participants on lixisenatide had nausea and 13% experienced vomiting. About a third of participants (28 people) receiving lixisenatide opted for a lower dose during the study due to side effects.
Highlights
The study enrolled 156 people with Parkinson’s, who were randomly assigned to receive either a once daily injection of lixisenatide (a GLP-1 agonist) or a placebo.
After a year of treatment, people who received lixisenatide showed better outcomes in their movement symptoms compared to those who received a placebo.
Lixisenatide caused many participants to have gastrointestinal side effects — 46% of participants had nausea and 13% experienced vomiting.
What does this mean for GLP-1 drugs and Parkinson’s?
This study may mean that certain GLP-1 agonists could be beneficial in reducing certain Parkinson’s symptoms. These promising results will inspire more research on the long-term impacts of lixisenatide on PD progression.
This study had a small sample size and only assessed the drug in those who were newly diagnosed (diagnosed within three years). Larger studies, with significantly more participants living with wider ranges of PD stages, are needed before we can make the connection between GLP-1 agonists and symptom management or disease progression.
Lastly, there are many GLP-1 agonists currently being researched for PD treatment, and other similar drugs have shown less promising results compared to lixisenatide. More research is needed to understand the differences between various GLP-1 agonists on PD symptoms.
What do these findings mean to the people with PD right now?
Currently, GLP-1 agonists are only approved for treating diabetes and obesity. People with Parkinson’s who also have diabetes and obesity should talk to their doctor before starting a GLP-1 agonist. There is currently insufficient evidence to support the use of GLP-1 agonists like lixisenatide as a treatment for people with Parkinson’s who do not have diabetes or obesity.
Additionally, the weight loss associated with GLP-1 agonists may be a problem for the many people with Parkinson’s who experience unintended weight loss through the course of the disease.
Of note, lixisenatide is no longer available in the U.S.
Learn More
The Parkinson’s Foundation believes in empowering the Parkinson’s community through education. Learn more about PD and the topics in this article through our below resources, or by calling our free Helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) for answers to your Parkinson’s questions.
Herramientas para abordar las alteraciones del pensamiento y la memoria en la EP
A medida que envejecemos, nuestra habilidad de pensamiento cambia. Los cambios cognitivos también pueden aparecer en la enfermedad de Parkinson (EP), incluyendo pensamiento más lento, olvidos, falta de concentración y, en ocasiones, pérdida de memoria. En este artículo, aprenda estrategias prácticas para reducir el riesgo de alteraciones del pensamiento y mejorar la salud cognitiva y descubra las terapias disponibles para los trastornos cognitivos.
El siguiente artículo se basa en una Charla con expertos de la Parkinson’s Foundation (Expert Briefings) acerca de las alteraciones del pensamiento y la memoria en la EP, con el Dr. Gregory Pontone, médico con maestría en ciencias de la salud, de la Facultad de Medicina de la University of Florida, un Centro de Excelencia de la Parkinson’s Foundation.
Envejecimiento y cognición
Algunos procesos del pensamiento se conservan bien a medida que envejecemos, incluyendo:
El vocabulario y los conocimientos generales.
Las competencias lingüísticas.
Recordar cómo se hacen las cosas, como andar en bicicleta o cocinar pasta (memoria procedimental), el nombre del presidente o de un vecino (memoria semántica).
La capacidad de comprender lo que vemos.
Los cambios en cualquiera de estas capacidades antes de los 70 años podrían estar relacionados con la EP u otra enfermedad asociada al envejecimiento. A medida que una persona se acerca a los 70 años, la edad o el Parkinson pueden influir en:
La capacidad de retener información a corto plazo mientras se concentra en otra tarea (memoria funcional).
Planificar, organizar y realizar tareas (función ejecutiva).
Atención focalizada y dividida.
La rapidez con la que el cerebro comprende y responde a la información.
Reconocer los cambios cognitivos en la EP
Muchas personas con Parkinson pueden experimentar cierto grado de alteraciones del pensamiento. Estos cambios suelen progresar gradualmente junto con los síntomas motores. El deterioro cognitivo leve (DCL o MCI, por sus siglas en inglés) describe alteraciones de la memoria o del pensamiento que no afectan la vida cotidiana. Las personas con la enfermedad de Parkinson de inicio temprano —aquellas que desarrollan síntomas antes de los 50 años— suelen experimentar cambios cognitivos más leves y lentos relacionados con la EP.
En algunas personas con Parkinson, el cambio cognitivo progresivo puede conducir a la demencia de la EP (DEP), un deterioro más grave del pensamiento. A veces, la persona se da cuenta de que su memoria está fallando, pero otras veces son las personas más cercanas quienes reconocen los signos. El deterioro cognitivo en la EP puede afectar:
La realización de tareas, como organizar medicamentos o utilizar un control remoto.
Las habilidades lingüísticas y de búsqueda de palabras, que afectan la capacidad de seguir instrucciones o participar en conversaciones.
La memoria, que hace que la persona repita preguntas, olvide información importante o tenga problemas para aprender información nueva.
El juicio, que lleva a que la persona ignore riesgos o tome malas decisiones.
La orientación de tiempo y lugar; una persona con problemas del pensamiento puede perderse, especialmente en lugares conocidos.
Las dificultades de memoria en la EP vs. la enfermedad de Alzheimer
Los médicos utilizan la Evaluación Cognitiva de Montreal (MoCA, por sus siglas en inglés) como herramienta de detección de alteraciones del pensamiento. Puede distinguir entre tipos de disfunción de la memoria.
El deterioro de la memoria relacionado con la EP difiere de la enfermedad de Alzheimer. Una buena parte de la memoria de reconocimiento —la capacidad de recordar cosas que uno se ha encontrado antes— permanece prácticamente intacta para la mayoría de las personas con Parkinson. Las personas con Parkinson pueden tener un poco de dificultad para buscar y recuperar un recuerdo, pero con una pista o tiempo suficiente, pueden recordarlo. Por lo general, una persona con Alzheimer es incapaz de crear o recuperar nuevos recuerdos.
La demencia por la EP, la demencia con cuerpos de Lewy y la enfermedad de Alzheimer están asociadas a proteínas plegadas anormalmente que forman grumos pegajosos que dañan la salud cerebral. Los cuerpos de Lewy son cúmulos tóxicos de proteína alfa-sinucleína que se acumulan en el cerebro.
Un fallo de la memoria al principio de la EP o un fallo similar al del Alzheimer podrían indicar que la persona con Parkinson también podría tener Alzheimer.
Posibles descubrimientos
Una comprensión más profunda del complejo funcionamiento de la EP puede mejorar el tratamiento y la atención. Actualmente, los investigadores pueden ver los cúmulos tóxicos asociados a los problemas de memoria mediante técnicas de imagenología. Los científicos confían en que los avances tecnológicos pronto permitan examinar más de cerca la proteína alfa-sinucleína mal plegada.
La terapia de infusión de anticuerpos puede eliminar el amiloide del cerebro de las personas con la enfermedad de Alzheimer en fase inicial. La esperanza es que las infusiones ralenticen la progresión de la enfermedad. Las futuras terapias para el Parkinson podrían inhibir el mal plegamiento de la proteína alfa-sinucleína para minimizar la formación de cuerpos de Lewy o, posiblemente, incluso eliminar la alfa-sinucleína anormal.
Los beneficios del ejercicio aeróbico en el Parkinson son poderosos. Ya sea que nade, camine o haga otro ejercicio de intensidad moderada, hacer ejercicio 150 minutos por semana puede mejorar la estabilidad y el equilibrio, disminuir el riesgo de caídas, reducir la depresión y beneficiar directamente la cognición en la EP, mejorando:
La atención
La velocidad de procesamiento
El tiempo de reacción
La función ejecutiva
El lenguaje
El entrenamiento de resistencia —utilizando el peso corporal, pesas o ligas— también puede ser beneficioso para la cognición, el equilibrio, la marcha y la densidad ósea, al tiempo que reduce el riesgo de fracturas en la EP. El entrenamiento de resistencia también mejora la función ejecutiva y la atención.
2. Practique la atención plena.
Un estudio de 2004 observó cómo 20 personas con Parkinson de leve a moderado y 10 personas que no tenían la EP realizaban una tarea a medida que se añadían grados de complejidad.
Los investigadores descubrieron que, mientras que el aumento de la atención requerida contribuía a las alteraciones del desempeño y de la marcha en todos los participantes, las personas con Parkinson se volvían aún más lentas. Practicar la atención plena, centrarse en una sola cosa a la vez y bloquear las distracciones, puede ayudarle a funcionar de forma óptima con Parkinson.
3. Siga una dieta nutritiva.
La dieta MIND (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay), una combinación de la dieta mediterránea y DASH (método dietético para detener la hipertensión, por sus siglas en inglés) para retrasar la degeneración neuronal, es una dieta basada en evidencia para la salud neurológica.
Las recomendaciones incluyen comer:
Al menos 3 raciones de cereales integrales al día.
Una ración diaria mínima de una ensalada de hojas verde oscuro y una ración de verduras.
Al menos 30 gramos de frutos secos al día.
Frijoles o legumbres al menos cada dos días.
Bayas (berries) al menos dos veces por semana.
Aves de corral al menos dos veces por semana.
Pescado al menos una vez a la semana.
Y limitar:
Mantequilla o margarina a no más de una cucharada sopera al día (utilice en su lugar aceite de oliva).
Queso, alimentos fritos o comida rápida a no más de una vez por semana.
Bollería o dulces a menos de cinco veces por semana.
4. Duerma lo suficiente.
El sueño de calidad desempeña un papel en la creación y recuperación de recuerdos y puede eliminar algunas de las proteínas anormales asociadas a la pérdida de memoria. También ayuda al cuerpo a reflejar los beneficios del ejercicio.
Los cambios y síntomas cerebrales relacionados con la EP pueden alterar el sueño. Practicar conductas que lo pongan en el estado óptimo para relajarse puede ayudarle a conciliar el sueño y a permanecer dormido. Una rutina de sueño saludable incluye:
Un horario regular para dormir y despertar (intente reservar al menos 8 horas)
Un dormitorio tranquilo y en penumbra
Tiempo de pantalla mínimo
Hable con su médico acerca de problemas de sueño o inquietudes al respecto. Pueden trabajar en conjunto para encontrar las mejores herramientas para tratar sus síntomas.
5. Manténgase conectado socialmente.
Encontrar y establecer relaciones sociales saludables beneficia al cerebro y al cuerpo. Busque recursos comunitarios como punto de partida; por ejemplo, clases de ejercicio, actividades artísticas, grupos de apoyo u oportunidades de voluntariado. Las visitas a domicilio, las llamadas telefónicas o los programas en línea pueden beneficiar a quienes tienen dificultades para salir.
El aislamiento social y la soledad pueden ser peligrosos.
El aislamiento social se asocia a un aumento de 50% del riesgo de demencia y aumenta significativamente el riesgo de muerte prematura, a niveles de los riesgos del tabaquismo, la obesidad y la inactividad física.
Las investigaciones demuestran que el aislamiento aumenta el riesgo de cardiopatías y accidentes cerebrovasculares en torno a un 30%.
La soledad puede aumentar la ansiedad, la depresión, la confusión, las delusiones, los problemas de memoria y comunicación y puede afectar la capacidad para resolver problemas. El aislamiento también aumenta la tensión del cuidador, que puede llevar al agotamiento.
6. Explore el tratamiento.
Su médico puede recomendarle que trabaje con un neuropsicólogo o un terapeuta del habla y el lenguaje especialmente preparados, que pueden ofrecerle formas de compensar los problemas de memoria o pensamiento.
Algunos medicamentos recetados también pueden mejorar los síntomas de la demencia por la EP. Los inhibidores de la acetilcolinesterasa potencian la acetilcolina (una sustancia química importante para la memoria entre otras cosas) en el cerebro. Entre ellos se encuentran la rivastigmina (el único medicamento para la PEP aprobado por la FDA), el donepezilo y la galantamina.
La memantina es un medicamento que protege al cerebro de los niveles excesivos de una sustancia química llamada glutamato. A veces se utiliza en combinación con inhibidores de la acetilcolinesterasa.
As we age, our thinking abilities change. Cognitive changes can also occur in Parkinson's disease (PD), including slower thinking, forgetfulness, lack of focus and sometimes, memory loss. In this article, learn practical strategies to lower the risk of thinking changes, improve cognitive health and discover available therapies for cognitive disorders.
The following article is based on a Parkinson’s Foundation Expert Briefing about thinking and memory changes in Parkinson’s, hosted by Dr. Gregory Pontone, MD, MHS, University of Florida Center for Movement Disorders and Neurorestoration, a Parkinson’s Foundation Center of Excellence.
Aging and Cognition
Some thinking processes are well-preserved as we age, including:
vocabulary and general knowledge.
language skills.
remembering how to do things, like ride a bike or cook pasta (procedural memory), the name of the president or your neighbor (semantic memory).
the ability to grasp what we see.
Changes in any of these abilities prior to age 70 could be related to Parkinson’s or another aging-associated disease. As someone moves into and beyond their 70s, age and/or Parkinson’s might impact:
the ability to hold onto information short-term while focusing on another task (working memory).
planning, organizing and accomplishing tasks (executive function).
focused and divided attention.
how fast the brain understands and responds to information.
Recognizing Cognitive Change in PD
Some degree of thinking changes can affect many people with Parkinson’s. These changes tend to progress gradually alongside movement symptoms. People with young-onset Parkinson’s disease — those who develop symptoms before age 50 — often experience milder, slower cognitive change related to PD.
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) describes memory or thinking changes that do not impact daily life.
In some people with Parkinson’s, progressive cognitive change can lead to PD dementia (PDD), a more severe decline in thinking. Sometimes a person has insight that their memory is failing, but other times, it is the people closest to them who recognize the signs. Cognitive impairment in PD can affect:
Task performance, such as organizing medications or using a remote control.
Word-finding and language abilities, impacting the ability to follow directions or participate in conversations.
Memory, causing a person to repeat questions, forget important information or have trouble learning new information.
Judgement, leading someone to ignore risks or to make bad decisions.
Orientation with time and place; a person with impaired thinking may get lost, especially in familiar places.
Memory Difficulty in PD vs. Alzheimer’s Disease
Doctors use the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) as a screening tool for thinking changes. It can distinguish between types of memory dysfunction.
Memory impairment related to Parkinson's differs from Alzheimer's disease. A good portion of recognition memory — the skill of recalling things you have come across before — remains largely intact for most people with Parkinson's. Someone with Parkinson’s may have a little difficulty searching for and retrieving a memory but, with a hint or enough time, can remember. A person with Alzheimer's is generally unable to make or retrieve new memories.
Parkinson’s, PD dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies and Alzheimer's disease are associated with abnormally folded proteins that form sticky clumps which damage brain health. Lewy bodies are toxic clusters of alpha-synuclein protein that build up in the brain.
Memory failing early in the course of PD or failing in a way similar to Alzheimer's could indicate a person with Parkinson's might also have Alzheimer's.
Potential Breakthroughs
Gaining a deeper understanding of the complex workings behind PD can improve treatment and care. Researchers are now able to visualize the toxic clumps associated with memory issues through imaging techniques. Scientists are hopeful meaningful advances in technology will soon allow closer examination of misfolded alpha-synuclein protein.
Antibody infusion therapy can remove amyloid from the brain of people with early Alzheimer's disease. The hope is that infusions will slow down disease progression. Future Parkinson’s therapies could inhibit the misfolding of alpha-synuclein proteins to minimize Lewy body formation or possibly even remove abnormal alpha synuclein.
Tools to Improve Cognition Today
As you navigate Parkinson’s stages and symptoms, the pursuit of wellness can have a profound impact.
1. Get moving
The benefits of aerobic exercise in Parkinson’s are powerful. Whether swimming, walking or doing another moderate intensity workout, exercising 150 minutes each week can enhance stability and balance, decrease the risk of falls, reduce depression and directly benefit cognition in PD, improving:
attention
processing speed
reaction time
executive function
language
Resistance training — using bodyweight, weights or bands — can also benefit cognition, balance, gait and bone density, while reducing the risk of fractures in PD. Resistance training also improves executive function and attention.
2. Practice mindfulness
A 2004 study looked at how 20 people with mild to moderate Parkinson's and 10 people who didn't have PD performed a task as layers of complexity were added.
Researchers discovered that while increasing demands on attention contributed to performance and gait disturbances across all participants, the people who had Parkinson's slowed down even more. Practicing mindfulness, focusing on one thing at a time and blocking out distractions, can help you function optimally with Parkinson’s.
3. Eat a nourishing diet
The MIND diet (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay), a combination of the Mediterranean diet and DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), is an evidence-based diet for neurological health. Recommendations include eating:
at least 3 portions of whole grains daily.
a minimum daily serving of one dark, leafy green salad and one serving of vegetables.
at least 30 grams of nuts daily.
beans or legumes at least every other day.
berries at least twice a week.
poultry at least twice a week.
fish at least once a week.
And limiting:
butter or margarine to no more than a tablespoon a day (use olive oil instead).
cheese, fried or fast food to no more than once a week.
pastries or sweets to less than five times a week.
4. Get good sleep
Quality sleep plays a role in making and recalling memories and may also remove some of the abnormal proteins associated with memory loss. It also helps the body realize the gains of exercise.
Parkinson’s-related brain changes and symptoms can disrupt slumber. Practicing behaviors that get you in the optimal state to relax can help you fall asleep and stay asleep. A healthy sleep routine includes:
a regular sleep-wake schedule (try to set aside at least 8 hours).
a quiet, dim bedroom.
minimal screen time.
Talk to your doctor about sleep issues or concerns. You can work together to find the best tools to address your symptoms.
5. Stay socially connected
Finding and building healthy social relationships benefits the brain and body. Look to community resources for a starting point, including local exercise classes, art activities, support groups or volunteer opportunities. In-home visits, phone calls or online programs can benefit those who have difficulty getting out.
Social isolation is associated with a 50% increased risk of dementia, and significantly increases the risk of premature death, rivaling the risks of smoking, obesity and physical inactivity.
Research shows isolation increases the risk of heart disease and stroke by about 30%.
Loneliness can increase anxiety, depression, confusion, delusions, memory and communication problems and can impact problem-solving skills. Isolation also increases care partner strain, which can lead to burnout.
6. Explore treatment
Your doctor may recommend you work with a specially trained neuropsychologist or speech-language pathologist who can offer ways to compensate for memory or thinking problems.
Some prescription medications can also improve symptoms of PD dementia. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors boost acetylcholine (a chemical important for memory and more) in the brain. These include rivastigmine (the only FDA-approved PDD medication), donepezil and galantamine.
Memantine is a medication that protects the brain from excess levels of a chemical called glutamate. It is sometimes used in combination with acetylcholinesterase inhibitors.
Episode 174: The Evolution of PD GENEration for Genetic Testing & Counseling
The Parkinson’s Foundation makes life better for people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) by improving care and advancing research toward a cure. The Foundation recognizes the importance of funding and supporting research studies dedicated to better understanding the causes of PD, developing more effective treatments, and ultimately finding a cure. The Foundation awards research grants to support investigators working on diverse research projects, along with collaborating with other institutions to advance PD research.
One of its major initiatives is exploring the genes and other factors associated with the development of PD through a global project, PD GENEration: Mapping the Future of Parkinson’s Disease. By gathering genetic information from tens of thousands of people with PD, this study offers genetic testing for relevant disease-related genes and genetic counseling to help participants understand their results, all at no cost to them. At the same time, knowledge gathered through PD GENEration will promote more focused, gene-specific clinical trials of drugs and may lead to novel therapy options for people with PD. In this episode, we explore the origins of PD GENEration, its growth over the years, and its goals with Dr. James Beck, Chief Scientific Officer of the Parkinson’s Foundation.
Released: December 31, 2024
As Chief Scientific Officer, James Beck, PhD, sets the strategic direction for the Parkinson’s Foundation research vision. Dr. Beck oversees a portfolio that has guided more than $400 million in research to explore what causes Parkinson’s disease (PD) and how to improve treatments, working towards a world without Parkinson’s disease. He has played an integral role in positioning the organization as a world leader in accelerating Parkinson’s research.
Dr. Beck launched PD GENEration: Mapping the Future of Parkinson's Disease, a national study started by the Parkinson’s Foundation in 2019 that offers genetic testing for Parkinson’s-related genes and genetic counseling at no cost for participants with a confirmed PD diagnosis. Additionally, he led the team that updated the estimated prevalence of PD in the U.S. and globally and collaborated with several organizations to develop the economic burden of Parkinson’s disease.
