A Personal Struggle: Overcoming Limitations
El Genís experienced the first signs of Parkinson’s at the age of 59: at times, he noticed difficulties in arm movement and dragged one leg while walking.
Today, the reality for many people diagnosed with this condition is a daily struggle against mobility difficulties, blockages and uncontrolled movements.
Variability in the Presentation of the Disease
The president of the Catalan Association for the Fight against Parkinson’s (ACLP), Roser Roigé, highlights the diversity in the early symptoms of Parkinson’s, which affects each individual in a unique way.
From tremors at rest to muscle stiffness, the range of manifestations is wide, all patients face a complex reality.
Holistic Treatments: Beyond Medication
Apart from consultations with neurologists, patients turn to physiotherapists to improve their mobility and to speech therapists to overcome difficulties in speech and swallowing.
The holistic approach also includes psychological support to manage the emotional and social repercussions of the illness.
A Complex Path: Access to Health Care
Despite the multiple needs of patients, health care in areas such as physiotherapy, speech therapy and psychological support is not always available through the public health system.
This leads patients and their families to face significant costs to access the necessary treatments, a situation that often goes unnoticed by society.
Innovation in Treatments: A Light of Hope
Advances in research, such as the use of high-intensity focused ultrasound (Hifu), offer new therapeutic options for Parkinson’s and essential tremor patients, substantially improving their quality of life.
These innovative treatments can significantly reduce symptoms, providing immediate results and, in some cases, eliminating them completely.
Family Support: A Fundamental Pillar
The emotional and practical support of the family plays a crucial role in the management of Parkinson’s. El Genís, for example, deeply appreciates the help of his wife and family in this ongoing struggle.
The ACLP emphasizes the importance of family pedagogy to address the implications of this neurodegenerative disease.
A Promising Future
Despite the challenges, there is hope for the future. Both patients and experts are calling for greater investment in research and support, seeking new solutions to improve the quality of life of those affected by Parkinson’s.
