Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's disease is one of the most common brain disorders among adults 60 years and older. About 6 out of 10 people with Parkinson's fall every year, and falling more than once is common.
Parkinson's Disease and Falls
- People with Parkinson's may shake or have other unintended or uncontrollable movements. They may experience stiffness in the neck and body, take medication that increases fall risk, or have cognitive impairment. All of these factors combined can make it difficult to maintain balance and coordination which can increase your risk of falling.
- People with Parkinson's are more likely to need a hospital stay after a fall than those without.
- The risk of falls increases as the disease progresses.
- Tai Chi is an evidence-based exercise program that reduces falls in older adults with Parkinson's disease.
Steps You Can Take
- Stay active with the exercises your healthcare provider or physical therapist recommends.
- Find a Tai Chi class in your community.
- Ask your healthcare provider how to reduce your fall risk if you have Parkinson's disease.
- Complete the Personal Medicines list and plan to discuss with your healthcare provider.
Physical Therapy and Parkinson's Disease
Learn how physical therapy can help reduce falls in people with Parkinson's disease.