How does Parkinson's Disease affect Mobility?

At Wheelfreedom, we have been supplying mobility equipment for over 14 years. During this time, we have provided expert advice and support for those living with conditions such as Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis, Arthritis and Diabetes. Some customers also have other health conditions as a result from accidents or injuries.

On a regular basis, we meet people living with Parkinson’s disease, as well as their loved ones. We believe that a person can live well with Parkinson’s and that there are therapies and support available to help those improve their quality of life, particularly when it comes to mobility and motor symptoms.

What is Parkinson’s disease?

Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that is caused by a loss of nerve cells in the brain. It is a progressive disease that causes a broad range of symptoms, including reduced mobility and difficulty moving.

Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease

There are various physical and psychological symptoms that are associated with Parkinson’s disease. The most common and identifiable symptoms are involuntary shaking and tremors, slow body movement, stiffened muscles, and rigid limbs.

As a result of nerve cells in the brain being targeted, other symptoms also include loss of balance, loss of sense of sell, and memory loss. Parkinson’s is a life changing disease and can be a contributing factor of depression and anxiety.

Parkinson’s can affect anyone of any age, but it is most commonly found in adults aged 50 and over. Whilst there is no cure, there are treatments available to relieve the symptoms, as well as mobility equipment to help maintain independence.

How does Parkinson’s affect mobility?

Because Parkinson’s causes damage to the part of the brain that controls movement, a person living with the disease may move a lot slower, shake and have stiffened muscles. Commonly known as 'freezing', Parkinson's can cause a person to suddenly stop during an action. An example of this is when someone is walking and unable to continue moving their legs to which they may shuffle along.

Parkinson's is a progressive disease, meaning the condition will worsen over time. This can impact a person's life massively as day to day tasks such as eating and drinking or going for a walk may become more difficult because of muscle weakness.

However, it is important to note that the degree of severity and symptoms can vary from person to person.

Risk of falls for those living with Parkinson’s

Because Parkinson's affects mobility and posture, there is a heightened risk of falling. Therefore, it is important to have preventative measures in place.

Installing grab rails and ensuring carpet is secured in the home is really important in preventing falls. Similarly, there are a range of mobility aids such as rollators, walkers and wheelchairs that can be used inside and outside the home to assist with walking and day to day activities.

Mobility aids for those living with Parkinson's Disease

Mobility products can improve a person’s quality of life dramatically through providing physical support.

At Wheelfreedom, we have supplied mobility equipment to people living with Parkinson's disease for over 14 years. We pride ourselves in being trusted, knowledgeable, impartial, dependable and progressive.

Our team is made up of product specialists and engineers who have an exceptional understanding of health conditions and mobility solutions. We are able to provide a range of mobility equipment from basic non-prescriptive products, to prescriptive, bespoke mobility aids to suit your individual needs.

Whether you need a wheelchair temporarily following an accident, or require something longer term, we sell and hire the following equipment:

• Standard wheelchairs that are lightweight and transportable

• Wheelchair Powerpacks to take the strain off pushing

• Tilt in space wheelchairs to provide comfort for those spending long periods of time in their chair

• Rollators to help you stay active and independent

• Rise and Recline chairs to relax in the comfort of your own home

• Beds for comfort and positioning

• Stairlifts for freedom around the home

Below are some examples of products we stock at Wheelfreedom that may suit a person living with Parkinson's.

Visit Wheelfreedom's Mobility Showroom

Parkinson's is a condition that affects each individual differently. If you are seeking mobility equipment to help you gain independence, we recommend you speaking with one of our in-house product advisors on 0800 025 8005.

If you would rather speak with someone in person, why not visit our industry leading showroom, based in Surrey?

Known for our large space and broad range of products, you can try out as many mobility aids as you would like, with a product specialist on hand to offer impartial and knowledgeable advice, tailored to your needs.