Does Parkinson’s Affect Memory?

Parkinson’s is a neurological movement disorder associated with progressive disability. Motor symptoms, tremors, stiffness, and slow movements.

However, with some, Parkinson’s comes associated with an added burden of nonmotor symptoms: effects on memory and cognition. Know how it affects your memory—patients, caregivers, and doctors alike.

The Link Between Parkinson’s and Memory Problems

Parkinson’s disease is a neurological movement disorder associated with progressive disability. Essentially, it is recognized by motor symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and slow movements.

To some, however, Parkinson’s adds the burden of nonmotor symptoms affecting memory and cognition. Know how to affect your memory—patients, caregivers, and doctors alike.

Types of Memory Affected

The memory problems associated with Parkinson’s differ from patient to patient. Some have problems related to short-term memory, just as remembering recent conversations or current events, or the type of topical data.

Others exhibit flaws in working memory-the ability to hold onto and manipulate information briefly. Long-term memory is relatively unaffected and represents procedural tasks like riding a bike or playing musical instruments.

Causes of Memory Problems in Parkinson’s

Several factors contribute to memory problems in Parkinson’s patients:

• Changes in Neurotransmitters: The diminution of dopamine and other neurotransmitters in the brain changes mental functions.
• Lewy Bodies: The result could be that this abnormal protein deposit interferes with the normal working of the brain and leads progressively to loss in cognitive abilities.
• Medication Side Effects: Certain medications that treat Parkinson’s have side effects related to how they impact your memory and cognitive abilities.
• It frequently co-occurs with anxiety, and both are common comorbidities during the course of Parkinson’s, possibly contributing to a worsening of memory problems and cognitive decline.

Managing Memory Problems in Parkinson’s

There are different techniques and treatments to manage the memory problems of people with Parkinson’s.

• Medications: Certain medications can enhance cognitive skills. These should be discussed with a health-care provider.
• Cognitive Therapy: To a great extent, cognitive exercises and therapies can be done that help in retaining and enhancing memory.
• Healthy Living: Regular Exercise, Good Diet, Enough Sleep— This might go a long way toward maintaining the health of the brain as a whole.
• Mental Stimulation: Puzzles, reading, and social interaction stimulate the mind to help keep it sharp.
• Support Systems: Support systems, through participation in support groups, combined with caregivers, shall be drawn on to help provide further emotional support and substantive tips concerning approaches to memory difficulties.

Conclusion

While problems with memory can be extremely difficult, they can nevertheless be managed and their effects minimized in various ways through different strategies and treatments.

Treating patients for motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease will enable patients and caregivers to enhance their quality of life and preserve cognitive function as long as possible.

Dr. Navin Tiwari
Consulting Neurologist