Parkinson’s disease belongs to a group of conditions called movement disorders. It is both chronic, meaning it persists over a long period of time, and progressive, meaning its symptoms grow worse over time.

Parkinson’s disease occurs when a group of cells, in an area of the brain called the substantia nigra, that produce a chemical called dopamine begin to malfunction and eventually die. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter, or chemical messenger, that transports signals to the parts of the brain that control movement initiation and coordination. When Parkinson’s disease occurs, for unexplained reasons, these cells begin to die at a faster rate and the amount of dopamine produced in the brain decreases.

Four Primary Symptoms:

• Tremor of the hands, arms, legs, jaw, and face
• Rigidity or stiffness of the limbs and trunk
• Bradykinesia or slowness of movement
• Postural instability or impaired balance and coordination

For assistance with patient transferring. Lift/commode is an FDA registered medical device, ideal for people with musculoskeletal or neuromuscular limitations. It is motorized and designed to operate as a lift system and as an adjustable-height commode. It can be used as a bedside commode (helps reduce bedpan use) or as a transfer system to move a person from a bed to a seated or standing position.

A special breathing device usually used 3 or 4 times daily as needed; or as directed by your doctor. It works in the lungs by opening breathing passages to make breathing easier. This device is intended for use in children but may also be used for adults requiring smaller doses.

Also known as a bili light, used to help infants with jaundice, a yellow coloring of the skin and eyes related to abnormal liver function.

Portable smaller units called E tanks are used for transport. A key is required to turn the tank on and off. The portable tanks must be replaced when empty. Therefore, the family must plan ahead for trips outside of the home. Portable E tanks may be used for backup in case of power failure.

Provide that extra lift needed to help you get in and out of any armchair on your own by shifting your weight forward and pushing off gently with your arms and/or legs. The pneumatic lift will help to gently raise you up to an almost standing position. The cushion is portable and weighs approximately 9 pounds and flattens quickly for easy transport.

Incorporate either the electronic conserving device, the pneumatic conserving device, or standard flow regulators. These systems provide individuals with a convenient, lightweight supply of oxygen. Systems are available with one or multiple M4, M6, M9, MD, or ME cylinders, fiber-wrapped cylinders, shoulder, horizontal, backpack, or fanny pack style carrying bags, cart, regulator, cannula, and supply tubing. All systems are also available with a straight post valve, handtight or a toggle CGA870 valve.

A powered wheelchair must be selected carefully in order to ensure it not only meets the needs of the individual who will use it but also represents good value for the money being invested in it. Physical considerations include posture, strength, sensation, visual acuity and perception, and the ability to learn how to use the wheelchair safely. A functional evaluation should include actual use of the wheelchair in everyday settings; an evaluation of the individual’s ability to get in and out of the wheelchair; and the ability to perform needed activities from the wheelchair. Transportation to and from various settings also is an important consideration: Is a van available to transport the individual in the chair, or is it necessary for the chair to fold or disassemble in order to be carried in an automobile trunk?

Armrests also come in several styles or with a combination of features. They may be full- or desk-length, or wraparound, and they may be fixed, removable, pivoting, and/or adjustable height.

A determining factor in the range and power of a powered chair. Generally, the larger the chair’s batteries, the greater the power and the longer the chair’s range between charges. Many chairs require two rechargeable 12-volt batteries. Most wheelchairs utilize U1, group 22 or 24 batteries, although other batteries are also used. More manufacturers are designing chairs around the group 24 battery because it affords a longer range. The type of battery required is also an important consideration in terms of safety, maintenance, and transport. Powered chairs may utilize lead acid, gel cell, or sealed wet batteries. Gel cell batteries require the least maintenance and have less danger of leaking than do the other battery types. Gel cell batteries are also required by a number of airlines when transporting powered chairs.