Driving
Talking about driving with Parkinson’s to others can be tough, but it’s important for your safety and confidence to get continuous feedback. An occupational therapist (OT) assessment can examine your driving abilities and help you determine challenges and strategies for staying on the road. Remember, Parkinson’s is something you need to report to your state or territory’s driving authority. Your GP or neurologist can assist you with the necessary forms.
It’s also crucial to be self-aware about when it might be time to stop driving. Even though it may feel like losing some independence, there are various transportation supports available for people with disabilities.
Employment & legal
There are practical strategies that can help you stay employed and actively contribute to your community, even with Parkinson’s. To navigate the workplace effectively, consider making adjustments, seeking support, and exploring potential accommodations to adapt to any changes in your abilities.
Remember, if your goal is to remain a valued member of the workforce, and there are often legal protections and strategies in place to support individuals with health conditions.
Overall, staying employed with Parkinson’s may require some adjustments, but with the right strategies, support, and communication, you can continue to thrive in the workplace and contribute meaningfully to your community.
Women & Parkinson’s
It’s important to recognise that women face unique challenges when it comes to Parkinson’s. These challenges stem from biological and social factors affecting progression and treatment.
Women may experience different symptoms and medical side effects compared to men. For instance, the impact of sex hormones on Parkinson’s risk, progression, and response to treatments is a significant area of study. Research suggests that oestrogen may have a neuroprotective effect, potentially influencing the onset and progression of Parkinson’s in women.
Women also have the unique challenge of navigating PD whilst going through many hormonal stages in life, from those still menstruating through pregnancy, perimenopause, menopause and post-menopause.
You may also face difficulties in your roles as caregivers, which your own health needs can compound. It’s important to recognise that these caregiving responsibilities can often lead to neglect of your own health, further exacerbating the challenges you face. The emotional health and care partner experience are also areas where women may face unique pressures.
Historically, Parkinson’s care and research have focused more on men, neglecting to consider relevant gender differences. However, there’s a growing recognition of the need for gender-specific research and care practices. This shift in focus brings hope and optimism for improving the quality of life for women with the condition, as it will lead to a better understanding and addressing of their specific needs.
Aussie women with PD are invited to be part of this first-of-its-kind study and help us make a difference in the lives of women with Parkinson’s worldwide.
YOPX hacks
Living well with Parkinson’s, especially when diagnosed at a younger age, involves adopting various strategies and “hacks” to navigate daily life. Remember, humour and creativity can be powerful tools in facing challenges. Turn the everyday into an adventure, and you’ll find joy and resilience in unexpected places. Here are some hacks from people living with young onset.
