About this profile
Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement. It occurs when nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine, a chemical that helps control movement, become damaged or die.
Symptoms include tremors, stiffness, slowness of movement, and balance problems.
Watch and listen
Common challenges
- Difficulty with fine motor skills (e.g., typing, writing).
- Tremors that affect hand stability.
- Slowness in movement, affecting productivity.
- Difficulty with balance and walking.
- Cognitive issues, such as memory problems or slower thinking.
- Fatigue.
- Communication difficulties, including softer speech or slurring.
- Emotional challenges like depression or anxiety.
How to help
- Assess the participant’s strengths and limitations.
- Offer career counselling to identify suitable job roles based on abilities.
- Suggest job environments that accommodate mobility or communication challenges.
- Work with the participant’s employer to provide necessary workplace modifications.
- Help the participant develop strategies to manage symptoms at work (e.g., taking regular breaks, using assistive devices).
- Encourage participation in job training programs or skill development.
- Support in advocating for necessary accommodations.
Notes
Parkinson’s Disease affects everyone differently, so accommodations and support should be individualised. Early intervention and proactive management of symptoms can help individuals maintain a good quality of life and stay productive in the workplace.
World Parkinsons Day is 11th April