Our frequently asked questions
It’s difficult to come to terms with having Parkinson’s, and living with this disease is a constant challenge. The fear surrounding the word ‘Parkinson’s’ stems as much from what we don’t know about it as from what we already do.
FAQs about Parkinson’s disease
It’s difficult to come to terms with having Parkinson’s, and living with this disease is a constant challenge. The fear surrounding the word ‘Parkinson’s’ stems as much from what we don’t know about it as from what we already do.
In the “European Parkinson Therapy Centre” we believe we can answer this question in simple and precise terms.
Parkinson’s disease is NOT a death sentence e and with modern medications and therapy, it is NOT a one-way ticket on a free-fall journey — but we will talk more about this later. Medically speaking, Parkinson’s is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by a reduced level of a chemical called dopamine in the part of the brain known as the “substantia nigra.” This area of the brain controls movement coordination, and the loss of dopamine along with the death of brain cells causes movement problems and muscle disorders.
Parkinson’s is not a rare disease, in fact, cases of Parkinson’s are steadily increasing (research has yet to find a definitive explanation for this rise. Everyday environmental exposures and higher levels of stress are two possible causes). It affects about 1 in every 500 people, although this number varies depending on the country and ethnicity.
Parkinson’s is not just an “old person’s disease”, as 10% of all cases occur in adults under the age of 50. It is true, however, that men are more likely than women to develop symptoms.
Parkinson’s is a degenerative disease that cannot (yet) be stopped. Its progression can be limited and slowed thanks to modern medicine and therapy, which alleviate the wide range of movement disorders and muscle discomfort experienced by people with Parkinson’s.
These discomforts include tremors, stiffness of movement, fatigue, loss of balance and dexterity. Sleep and bladder problems can also occur, and it is not uncommon for people with Parkinson’s to experience “freezing” of the muscles.
The progression of the disease varies in each patient, but over time everyone will experience more challenging symptoms. Eventually, there will come a point when it’s necessary to face the reality of the disease and change habits to improve quality of life.
But—and here’s the good news—you are not alone. There are ways to fight the disease (both with medication and non-pharmaceutical therapy), and your life can become more meaningful and fulfilling if you choose.
The European Parkinson Therapy Centre is a leader in non-pharmaceutical therapy. Research shows that it is more than just targeted physical therapy; it also brings peace of mind and a new attitude towards facing the disease, benefiting family and friends as well.
In the early years after diagnosis, sufferers often tend to hide it, avoid facing it, and refuse to talk about it—or, even worse, think that Parkinson’s is a death sentence. This is a mistake because during those lost years, it is often the family members or close ones who suffer from worry, lack of understanding, and the stress of not knowing how to act or how to help. Not to mention the anguish of living with the disease in solitude.
The European Parkinson Therapy Centre strongly believes in including the family in the equation. A shared problem is a problem halved—or at least a lighter burden for everyone. We encourage family members and friends to come on “vacation” with you, to have fun together, immerse themselves in the rich culture of our Valley, savor the flavors of our cuisine, and enjoy the hospitality and natural beauty of the area. And one evening, you can all attend a personalized meeting on how to live better with Parkinson’s.
They stimulate attention, memory, and concentration.
This is often the first question you ask yourself, and there’s no easy answer. But the most important question is: “How can I make my life full, now that I know it’s me?” Often, in the early years, patients avoid openly talking about Parkinson’s and even avoid hospital therapy. We want you to feel like a welcome guest during your time with us, someone with whom we can openly discuss how to live a full life even with Parkinson’s.
Actor Michael J. Fox is at the forefront of the fight against Parkinson’s. He has been living with the disease for over 20 years, and in his book “Always Looking Up: The Adventures of an Incurable Optimist,” he shows how awareness of the disease and acceptance that “yes, it’s you” are the first steps on the path to a better life. But the most important question is: “How can I make my life full, now that I know it’s me?” Often, in the early years, patients avoid openly talking about Parkinson’s and even avoid hospital therapy. We want you to feel like a welcome guest during your time with us, someone with whom we can openly discuss how to live a full life even with Parkinson’s.
Actor Michael J. Fox is at the forefront of the fight against Parkinson’s. He has been living with the disease for over 20 years, and in his book “Always Looking Up: The Adventures of an Incurable Optimist,” he shows how awareness of the disease and acceptance that “yes, it’s you” are the first steps on the path to a better life.
The Therapy
The European Parkinson Therapy Centre specializes in non-pharmaceutical treatment of the disease, using the latest research in physical therapy. These studies show that targeted exercise can not only alleviate symptoms but may also help the brain restore lost connections through neuroplasticity.
Frequently Asked Questions about Physical Therapy for Parkinson’s.
Thanks to the physical therapy performed at the center and continued at home, symptoms of the disease can be reduced and loss of mobility slowed down.
Research shows that targeted physical exercise and properly applied physiotherapy can significantly reduce some of the worst symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, especially in the early years.
Our highly qualified staff will guide you through a daily exercise routine, and you can rely on consultants who will help you face the disease with awareness and understanding.
You won’t be a patient, but our guest—“on vacation” in a welcoming environment. Your family and friends can also enjoy this “vacation” with you.
The therapy protocol has been shown to alleviate symptoms and improve mobility, but the best therapy is the one you carry with you: awareness of the importance of targeted and proper exercise, knowledge of the therapeutic protocol, and the ability to continue it independently at home. A positive mindset and stress avoidance are also very effective and essential elements for leading a fulfilling life. Your family
Being in a relaxing and stress-free environment is essential. The European Parkinson Therapy Centre is located in one of the most beautiful regions of Italy, surrounded by mountains and near a lake, offering much to enjoy.
Think of your stay as a “vacation,” and we will take care of the rest by offering targeted physiotherapy (consisting of four elements), personalized counseling for you—and your family if desired—providing useful information on what to expect and how to live with Parkinson’s.
The Centre is a leader in therapy because it uses a movement and exercise technique guided by a protocol created by our scientific committee, composed of researchers, neurologists, psychologists, and counselors from the United States and Europe.
For those who live nearby, the centre offers 10-week courses in groups of four people, using the current therapeutic protocol.
Hospitals are for sick people and can be stressful. It is psychologically wrong to think of Parkinson’s as a disease; life still lies ahead. And if you don’t need a hospital, there’s no reason to go to one. It is psychologically wrong to think of Parkinson’s as a disease; life still lies ahead. And if you don’t need a hospital, there’s no reason to go to one.
Absolutely yes. In fact, we encourage it. This is a time to be together and enjoy a beautiful part of Italy—a moment to share. This is one of the unique aspects of the European Parkinson Therapy Centre.
When a person is diagnosed with Parkinson’s, the entire family is affected. The Centre offers the opportunity for all family members to participate, if they wish, in personalized counseling sessions, but also provides the chance to enjoy a beautiful vacation in a uniquely scenic environment.
