[{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"BlogPosting","@id":"https:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/blog\/does-parkinsons-affect-cognition\/#BlogPosting","mainEntityOfPage":"https:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/blog\/does-parkinsons-affect-cognition\/","headline":"Does Parkinson\u2019s Affect Cognition?","name":"Does Parkinson\u2019s Affect Cognition?","description":"Are you or a loved one living with Parkinson\u2019s disease? If so, you know that it is a complex and […]","datePublished":"2023-02-09","dateModified":"2023-02-09","author":{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/blog\/author\/ceastway\/#Person","name":"Developer","url":"https:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/blog\/author\/ceastway\/","identifier":1,"image":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/8ea7fc410413ee0b715aee4c6b2d912c09623af5f85eaca6f6d7e0a2c223e1df?s=96&d=mm&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/8ea7fc410413ee0b715aee4c6b2d912c09623af5f85eaca6f6d7e0a2c223e1df?s=96&d=mm&r=g","height":96,"width":96}},"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Fox Trail Memory Care","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"http:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/logo.png","url":"http:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/logo.png","width":474,"height":250}},"image":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"http:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/HOPE.png","url":"http:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/HOPE.png","width":432,"height":130},"url":"https:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/blog\/does-parkinsons-affect-cognition\/","about":["Parkinson's Disease"],"wordCount":916,"articleBody":"Are you or a loved one living with Parkinson\u2019s disease? If so, you know that it is a complex and challenging condition that affects not only movement but also other aspects of daily life.While the tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with movement that are commonly associated with Parkinson\u2019s are well-known, many people may not be aware of the cognitive changes that can also occur in Parkinson\u2019s disease.From memory loss to attentional difficulties and beyond, cognitive impairment in Parkinson\u2019s disease can greatly impact one\u2019s quality of life.\u00a0What Is Parkinson\u2019s Disease?Parkinson\u2019s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects the central nervous system, specifically the nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine, a chemical messenger that helps control movement and coordination. The cause of Parkinson\u2019s disease is not fully understood, but it\u2019s believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.SymptomsThe most well-known symptoms of Parkinson\u2019s disease are motor symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with movement. Other common symptoms include:Slowness of movementRigidity (stiffness)Difficulty maintaining balanceDifficulty walkingIn addition to these motor symptoms, non-motor symptoms such as cognitive impairment, sleep disorders, depression, and anxiety can also occur.These symptoms may vary from person to person and may change over time. In the early stages of the disease, symptoms may be mild, but they will gradually become more severe as the disease progresses.How Does Parkinson\u2019s Affect Cognition?Cognitive impairment in Parkinson\u2019s disease can manifest in several ways, including difficulty with:MemoryAttentionDecision-makingVisuospatial tasksLanguageLack of motivationDepressionSome people with Parkinson\u2019s disease may experience mild cognitive impairment, while others may develop more severe forms of dementia.MemoryOne of the most common cognitive issues associated with Parkinson\u2019s disease is difficulty with memory. People with Parkinson\u2019s disease may have trouble forming new memories, or they may have difficulty recalling information that they\u2019ve previously learned.This can make it challenging for them to remember appointments, people\u2019s names, or other important details.AttentionPeople with Parkinson\u2019s disease may have trouble focusing on a task or staying on task for an extended period. This can make it difficult for them to complete complex tasks or follow through on a set of instructions.This type of cognitive impairment is often referred to as \u201cattentional impairment\u201d or \u201cattentional deficits\u201d.Decision MakingIn addition to memory and attentional difficulties, people with Parkinson\u2019s disease may also experience problems with decision-making. They may have trouble weighing the pros and cons of different options or making choices that are in their best interest.Visuospatial TasksPeople with Parkinson\u2019s disease may have difficulty with tasks that require visual perception and spatial awareness, such as reading a map or judging distances. This type of cognitive impairment is often referred to as visuospatial difficulties.LanguagePeople with Parkinson\u2019s disease may have difficulty with language, such as difficulty finding the right words, difficulty following conversations, and difficulty understanding spoken or written language.Lack of MotivationPeople may lose interest in activities they once enjoyed and may become less socially active.DepressionParkinson\u2019s disease can also affect the level of neurotransmitters in the brain, which can lead to depression and anxiety. It\u2019s important to note that depression and anxiety are common among people with Parkinson\u2019s disease and are not a sign of weakness or a personal failing.If you or a loved one with Parkinson\u2019s disease is experiencing depression and anxiety, it\u2019s important to speak with a healthcare professional. They can provide treatment options such as medication, therapy, and support groups that can help manage these symptoms.How to Treat Cognitive IssuesThere are several treatment options available for cognitive impairment in Parkinson\u2019s disease, including medications, cognitive therapies, and lifestyle changes.MedicationsMedications such as cholinesterase inhibitors, which are used to treat Alzheimer\u2019s disease, may be prescribed to help improve memory and thinking.These medications work by increasing the levels of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine in the brain, which is involved in memory and learning.Cognitive TherapiesCognitive therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and cognitive rehabilitation may also be used to help improve cognitive function.These therapies involve working with a therapist or cognitive rehabilitation specialist to identify and address cognitive difficulties and develop strategies to manage themLifestyle ChangesRegular exercise, a healthy diet, and staying mentally and socially active can also help to improve cognitive function. Exercise has been shown to improve mood, attention, and memory, and a healthy diet can help to protect against age-related cognitive decline.Staying socially active can also help to maintain cognitive function, as social interactions can provide mental stimulation and help to keep the brain active.Memory Care at Fox TrailFor those dealing with cognitive impairment due to Parkinson\u2019s disease, memory care at Fox Trail is an excellent option. Our communities offer specialized memory care services and a safe, secure environment for those with Parkinson\u2019s disease and other forms of dementia.Staff is trained to provide specialized care and support to help residents maintain their independence and improve their quality of life. Our communities also offer a wide range of daily activities, stimulating social events, and specialized therapy programs, aimed at promoting cognitive function and overall well-being. Book a visit at one of our New Jersey locations if you\u2019d like to learn more about Fox Trail Memory Care."},{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"BreadcrumbList","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Blog","item":"https:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/blog\/#breadcrumbitem"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Does Parkinson\u2019s Affect Cognition?","item":"https:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/blog\/does-parkinsons-affect-cognition\/#breadcrumbitem"}]}]