Is it normal aging or symptoms of Parkinson’s?
The challenges of getting older while living with a progressive disease
Getting older isn’t for sissies, my mom always said.
She also said “Merry Christmas” to me in July one year and noted how everyone in her care home had gray hair (she had been gray since her 30s).
She was spot on about the challenges of aging, though, especially for those of us with Parkinson’s disease. It’s a journey that demands resilience and courage. A sense of humor is also helpful.
A friend of mine says she sees Parkinson’s disease as accelerated aging, and I think she’s right.
When my mother moved to London, Ontario, in 2010, I was just 49 years old and keen to have her close by. I had seemingly boundless energy. I’d often do the shopping for her, and one time I was in a department store buying her new (ahem) undergarments. When I reached the front of the line, the cashier asked me, “Would you like the seniors’ discount?”
I was shocked and traumatized. I looked around. “Me? How old do you think I am? These granny pants aren’t for ME!” I slammed my hands down on the counter. What an outrage!
Then the woman said, “Do you want 15% off or not?”
“Oh, uh, yes, please,” I humbly replied.
And that was the first time I was mistaken as older than I was.
If my sister reads this, she will say no it’s not, as she remembers I used to sneak into bars with a fake ID when I was 17. But that’s a whole different story.
Have you ever been walking along and caught a glimpse of yourself in a mirror, only to not recognize that person? I sure have, and I’m sure many of you have, too. It’s not because that person in the mirror is young and gorgeous. Usually I see a woman who is older than me, moving slowly, not swinging her arm, and slightly round-shouldered. If I’m in the mall, this person in the mirror is often eating ice cream as well.
What were we talking about? Shopping? Ice cream? An old lady I don’t know?
Oh, yes, getting older. I’m getting forgetful these days. I hope it’s not Parkinson’s disease dementia.
Sometimes it’s difficult to distinguish between “normal” aging and Parkinson’s progression. For instance, I’ve had a very sore arm for several months now. Is it golfer’s elbow? Tennis elbow? A pulled muscle? Or is it from months of dyskinesia, which has been (literally) jerking me around every morning?
The American Parkinson Disease Association has a valuable article about the distinctions between Parkinson’s symptoms and signs of normal aging. The bottom line is that if you go to your doctor, they can often find a solution for you, regardless of the issue. Remember, you’re not alone, and there are professionals ready to help.
Note: Parkinson’s News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Parkinson’s News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Parkinson’s disease.
About the Author
Alexa Barr
While I am so angry that I have Parkinson's I do consider myself lucky that the medications work so I don't have the severe symptoms so many others have. Other than general fatigue , not being able to do the physical activity at the intensity and for the length of time I used to, this accelerated aging is me. I too se my reflection in the mirror and wonder who it is or how I got to look like this so quickly.
Christine Scheer
Hi Alexa,
I'm right there beside you, wondering the same things about myself!
All my best, thanks for reading and commenting.
Christine
JOEL PARKS
I’ve wondered the same thing, Christine. I just turned 79 and was diagnosed a year and a half ago. My solution is not to look at myself and mirrors and store windows. Problem solved.
Christine Scheer
Hi Joel,
HAHAHA. Thanks for the awesome advice!
All my best,
Christine
Mike
There are many conversations out there. I am 58. Got the PD 3 years ago. Bad fish, i think. Anyway i enjoyed this article. I am avoiding mirrors. Hate the lack of energy. Have low back issues too, so pain isn’t much help in the motivation department. I don’t talk to anyone about this really. Take care everyone
Christine Scheer
Hi Mike,
Yes, back pain is the worst! If you are interested, Parkinson's News Today has an on-line forum where many topics are covered. Here's the link: https://parkinsonsnewstoday.com/forums
Thanks for reading!
Christine
Mike
It’s Mike again. I meant there aren’t many conversations out there. I haven’t seen them
Carol Fazzio
Concerning “ Is it aging or Parkinson’s”. I think Parkinson’s has aged me more than if I didn’t have it. It seems to me that it puts such pressure and stress on the person’s body, changing the way it functions, causing the organs to work harder, and creating other health problems. In my opinion this ongoing and progressive trauma to the body, interiorly and exteriorly, could result in aging the body more rapidly. It definitely has aged me. Oh, I have a new thing. My hair is falling out. I couldn’t care less that my hair is grey, but I would like to keep it on my head.😊
Christine Scheer
Hi Carol,
I agree with you, I feel like I look and feel older than I am because of Parkinson's.
Thanks for reading!
Best,
Christine
Maria Cristina
I hear you Carol...I'm having the same problem..I was in denial..now I brush my hair frequently it's better than seeing my hair jumping off of my head.
Christine, l really enjoy reading your column.
I'd like to know more about nutrition.. what to eat - when you eat it and what to avoid completely...