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Recently Diagnosed

Individual reactions to being diagnosed with Parkinson’s are as varied as the symptoms of the condition. Whatever the reaction, no one has to face Parkinson’s alone, we are in this together.

Parkinson’s Victoria recommends giving yourself and your loved ones permission to experience a range of emotions following diagnosis. Remember, it is likely you have already experienced a number of life challenges, prior to being diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Just as you coped with those new and difficult moments, you will find the resources to cope with your future life with Parkinson’s.

Parkinson’s is a complex condition. The symptoms can impact on day to day activities and the future. Being diagnosed with Parkinson’s is a life changing experience, but there are treatments to help manage the symptoms and support services available to help get the most out of life, maintain independence and to continue to enjoy all that life has to offer.

There is no ‘best’ way to deal with the changes and adjustments that come with living with a chronic health condition. The adjustment period is different for everyone. Try to remain positive, realistic and connected to your friends, family and community.

Below you will find the relevant pages specific to you...

What is Parkinson’s

Information about Parkinson’s

Overview

Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition that affects people from all walks of life. It is quite common, with approximately 80,000 Australians, including 27,000 Victorians living with Parkinson’s.

What Causes Parkinson's?

Currently there is no known cause of Parkinson’s or understanding of why some people develop Parkinson’s and not others. This is the reason Parkinson’s is often referred to as “Idiopathic (or typical) Parkinson’s”.

How does Parkinson's progress?

Parkinson’s is a chronic and slowly progressive disorder. This means that symptoms normally appear slowly and develop gradually over time. The stage at which symptoms appear, speed at which they progress and the severity of those symptoms will vary from person to person. The most important point is that Parkinson’s affects everyone differently.

Symptoms

Information about the potential symptoms of Parkinson’s and how they can affect a person living with Parkinson’s.

Overview

Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition, which is characterised by both motor (movement) and non-motor symptoms. A full list of symptoms is explained here.

Treatments and Professional Support

Information about medications, surgical options and professional support available for people living with Parkinson’s.

Overview

While there is currently not a cure for Parkinson's, there are a range of treatments that can help to manage the day-to-day symptoms.

Support For You

Information about support services, health education events and neurlogists to assist in making a positive impact in the lives of people living with Parkinson’s

Overview

Support and information can make a significant and positive difference to the lives of people living with Parkinson’s, their family and carers. Parkinson’s Victoria provides a range of support services to assist in managing the condition and improving the quality of life.

Information For You

Personal stories and information about resources and publications in English and other languages, to assist people living with Parkinson’s feel more informed.

Overview

Parkinson’s Victoria provides a range of resources and publications that can assist people living with Parkinson’s, their families and carers to feel more informed about the condition. We are also committed to funding research that will provide life quality outcomes for people living with Parkinson’s and ultimately, find a cure.

Living With Parkinson’s

Information about how to live well with Parkinson’s

Living with Parkinson’s

People living with Parkinson's can continue to live long and rewarding lives. There are many ways to live well including exercising and eating well. Other aspects of living with Parkinson's such as driving, working, relationships, holidays and travel are explained.

Research

Information about Parkinson’s research studies and ways to participate, that aim to improve the quality of life for people living with Parkinson’s both today and tomorrow.

Research

Developing a strong Australian research agenda is central to Parkinson’s Victoria’s mission. We are committed to supporting vital research that improves quality of life for people with the condition, and the search for a cure.

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