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How Does Someone Die from Parkinson’s Disease?

Death from Parkinson's disease isn’t possible, in that it’s typically the comorbid conditions that cause one to pass away. That being said, the symptoms of Parkinson’s worsen as the disease progresses, which can increase the risk of dying due to external factors. If you’re unclear about the end stages of Parkinson’s and death due to these factors, this article is for you.

How does Parkinson’s disease affect the body?

Parkinson's disease primarily affects the central nervous system, specifically the dopaminergic neurons in the brain. The loss of these neurons leads to a decrease in dopamine levels, a neurotransmitter responsible for facilitating smooth and coordinated muscle movements. As a result, Parkinson's disease manifests primarily as motor symptoms, including tremors, rigidity, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and postural instability. These symptoms can vary in severity and progression among individuals.

In addition to motor symptoms, Parkinson's disease can also affect non-motor functions, such as cognition, mood, sleep, and autonomic functions. Cognitive impairment, including problems with memory, attention, and executive function, can occur, and some individuals may develop dementia in the later stages of the disease. Mood disturbances, such as depression and anxiety, are common with Parkinson's disease. Sleep disturbances, including insomnia and REM sleep behavior disorder, can also occur. Autonomic dysfunction may lead to symptoms such as constipation, urinary problems, and orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure upon standing).

The impact of Parkinson's disease on the body extends beyond motor and non-motor symptoms, affecting various aspects of daily life and overall well-being. While there is currently no cure for Parkinson's disease, treatment strategies aimed at managing symptoms, improving quality of life, and slowing disease progression can help individuals effectively manage the condition and maintain their independence for as long as possible.

Does Parkinson's disease cause death?

Parkinson's disease itself is not typically considered a direct cause of death; however, the complications associated with the disease can contribute to mortality. As Parkinson's disease progresses, individuals may experience various challenges such as difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), which can lead to aspiration pneumonia, falls resulting in injuries, respiratory issues, malnutrition, dehydration, cognitive decline, and side effects from medications. These complications can significantly impact the health and quality of life of individuals with Parkinson's disease and may contribute to mortality. As a result, Parkinson’s disease cause of death is typically a comorbid condition.

What are the different stages of Parkinson’s?

Parkinson's disease typically progresses through several stages, though the exact progression can vary from person to person. The commonly recognized Parkinson’s disease stages death are:

1. Early or prodromal stage: This stage involves mild symptoms that may go unnoticed or be attributed to other causes. Symptoms may include slight tremors, changes in handwriting, or decreased sense of smell.

2. Mild or initial stage: In this stage, symptoms become more noticeable and may start to interfere with daily activities. Tremors, rigidity, and slowness of movement (bradykinesia) become more apparent. Postural instability might not be present yet.

3. Moderate or mid-stage: Symptoms become more pronounced and significantly impact daily life. Postural instability may develop, increasing the risk of falls. Daily tasks such as walking, dressing, and eating may become challenging.

4. Advanced or late-stage: In this stage, symptoms are severe and significantly impair mobility and independence. Patients may experience freezing of movements, severe rigidity, and difficulties with speech and swallowing. Cognitive impairment and hallucinations may also occur. Patients often require assistance with daily activities and may be confined to a wheelchair or bed.

Not all individuals will experience every stage, and the progression can vary widely among patients. Additionally, with advancements in treatments and therapies, the progression of the disease can sometimes be slowed or managed effectively, improving quality of life for those with Parkinson's.

What are the last stages of Parkinson’s before death? What are the Parkinson’s death signs?

In the late stages of Parkinson's disease, individuals may experience severe symptoms that significantly impact their quality of life and overall health. These are the various Parkinson’s disease stages of death that one can expect:

1. Severe mobility issues: Mobility becomes extremely limited, with many individuals experiencing freezing of gait, making it difficult to start or continue walking. Balance problems and falls become more frequent, increasing the risk of injuries.

2. Advanced rigidity: Muscles become extremely stiff and rigid, leading to considerable discomfort and pain. This rigidity can affect all parts of the body, including the limbs, neck, and trunk, making movement extremely challenging.

3. Difficulty with daily activities: Activities of daily living, such as dressing, bathing, and eating, become increasingly difficult to perform independently. Assistance from caregivers or specialized equipment may be required.

4. Swallowing and eating difficulties: Swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) can develop, leading to problems with chewing and swallowing food safely. This can increase the risk of choking and aspiration pneumonia.

5. Communication challenges: Speech difficulties, such as slurred speech or soft voice (hypophonia), may worsen, making it hard for others to understand the person with Parkinson's.

6. Cognitive decline: Some individuals may experience cognitive impairment, including memory problems, confusion, and difficulties with decision-making and problem-solving. In some cases, dementia may develop in the later stages of Parkinson's disease.

7. Psychiatric symptoms: Depression, anxiety, and hallucinations may occur in the late stages of Parkinson's disease, adding to the overall burden on the individual and their caregivers.

8. Increased vulnerability to infections: Individuals with advanced Parkinson's disease may be more susceptible to infections, such as pneumonia and urinary tract infections, due to impaired mobility, swallowing difficulties, and weakened immune function.

In the terminal stages of Parkinson's disease, individuals may become bedridden and require round-the-clock care. Hospice care may be considered to provide comfort and support for both the patient and their family during this challenging time. It's important for caregivers and healthcare providers to address the physical, emotional, and psychological needs of individuals with advanced Parkinson's disease to ensure the best possible quality of life until the end.

What is the Parkinson's disease death rate?

The death rate associated specifically with Parkinson's disease varies depending on factors such as age, overall health, access to medical care, and treatment effectiveness. However, according to statistics, Parkinson's disease itself is rarely listed as the direct cause of death on death certificates. Instead, individuals with Parkinson's disease often succumb to complications related to the disease, such as pneumonia, infections, falls, or other comorbid conditions.

The mortality rate for Parkinson's disease is influenced by various factors, including disease severity, progression, and individual health profiles. While Parkinson's disease is a chronic and progressive condition, advancements in treatment and management strategies have improved the overall prognosis and quality of life for many individuals with the disease.

It's essential for individuals with Parkinson's disease and their caregivers to work closely with healthcare providers to monitor symptoms, manage complications, and optimize treatment to improve outcomes and quality of life. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, proper nutrition, and social engagement, can help mitigate some of the risk factors associated with Parkinson's disease and improve overall well-being.

Average age of Parkinson's death

The average age of death for individuals with Parkinson's disease is 78–81 years, which varies depending on factors such as disease severity, overall health, access to medical care, and treatment effectiveness. However, studies have shown that Parkinson's disease tends to affect older adults, with the risk of developing the condition increasing with age.

Overall, the prognosis and life expectancy for individuals with Parkinson's disease can vary widely depending on individual factors and disease progression. Treatment strategies aimed at managing symptoms, slowing disease progression, and addressing comorbidities can help improve outcomes and quality of life for individuals living with Parkinson's disease.

How can someone prepare for death from Parkinson’s?

Preparing for death from Parkinson's disease involves several practical and emotional considerations to ensure that the individual's wishes are respected and their needs are met. Here are some steps someone with Parkinson's disease and their loved ones can take to prepare:

1. Advance care planning: Discuss end-of-life preferences, including medical interventions, resuscitation preferences, and palliative care options, with healthcare providers and loved ones. Consider creating advance directives, such as a living will, or durable power of attorney for healthcare, to outline preferences for medical care and decision-making in the event the individual becomes unable to communicate their wishes.

2. Hospice care: Explore hospice care options and consider enrolling in a hospice program when appropriate. Hospice care provides comprehensive support, including pain management, symptom control, emotional and spiritual support, and assistance with daily activities, to improve quality of life for individuals with life-limiting illnesses and their families during the end-of-life period.

Find hospice care

1. Emotional and spiritual support: Seek emotional and spiritual support from loved ones, friends, clergy, or support groups to cope with the emotional challenges associated with end-of-life preparation and the loss of independence. Engage in activities that provide comfort and meaning, such as spending time with loved ones, practicing spirituality or religion, and pursuing hobbies or interests. If needed, it may be worth considering a grief counselor or professional help.

Find a grief therapist

1. Practical considerations: Address practical matters, such as financial planning, legal arrangements, and funeral or memorial preferences, to ensure that affairs are in order and loved ones are prepared for the end-of-life process. Consider consulting with financial advisors, estate planners, and legal professionals to address these matters and provide peace of mind for both the individual and their family. You can also easily start estate planning on your own with Ever Loved’s free checklist, to help you record important information for your loved ones.

Use the checklist

1. Comfort measures: Focus on maximizing comfort and quality of life by managing symptoms effectively through medications, physical therapy, and alternative therapies, such as massage or acupuncture. Ensure access to supportive care services, such as home health aides or respite care, to assist with daily activities and provide relief for caregivers.

2. Communication: Maintain open and honest communication with healthcare providers, caregivers, and loved ones about changing needs, preferences, and concerns related to end-of-life care. Encourage discussions about fears, hopes, and wishes for the end-of-life period to facilitate understanding and support among all involved.

By addressing these practical and emotional aspects of end-of-life preparation, individuals with Parkinson's disease can empower themselves and their loved ones to navigate the end-of-life process with dignity, comfort, and peace of mind.

In the final stages of Parkinson's disease, ensuring that essential information and preferences are documented can provide invaluable support and peace of mind for both individuals and their families. Ever Loved's free checklist offers a comprehensive tool to record important details related to end-of-life planning, including medical preferences, financial considerations, and funeral arrangements. By utilizing this checklist, individuals can take proactive steps to organize their affairs and communicate their wishes effectively, easing the burden on loved ones during a challenging time.

Use the checklist