If you have it to give, you certainly can, but there may be consequences should you apply for Medicaid long-term care coverage within five years after each gift.
In this guide, we explain the basics of Parkinson’s disease, why timely legal preparation matters, and how an elder law attorney can assist you in taking the right steps forward.
Key Takeaways
-
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement and cognitive function over time.
-
Symptoms include tremors, slowness of movement, rigidity, and balance issues.
-
Early legal planning for Parkinson’s disease can protect your rights, care preferences, and financial well-being.
Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- What Is Parkinson’s Disease?
- Current Parkinson’s Statistics
- Why Legal Planning Matters After a Parkinson’s Diagnosis
- Practical Legal Steps for Parkinson’s Patients
- Helpful Resources on Parkinson’s Disease
- Get Help With Legal Planning for Parkinson’s Disease
What Is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s is a movement disorder in which nerve cells that normally deliver the neurotransmitter called dopamine to other cells in the body experience damage and begin to die. For most people who face a PD diagnosis, the cause is unknown, though scientists cite the greatest risk factor for Parkinson’s as aging. This progressive condition is the second-most common neurodegenerative disorder after Alzheimer’s disease.
The more cell death spreads to larger areas of the brain, the more extensive the impact on the body. Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease typically develop slowly over years, and progression varies from person to person. The neurodegenerative disorder can manifest with the following symptoms:
- Tremors
- Bradykinesia (slowness of movement)
- Limb rigidity
- Gait and balance problems
Dopamine reduction can also produce nonmotor symptoms, often preceding a PD diagnosis. These symptoms can include:
- REM sleep behavior disorder
- Autonomic dysfunction of body systems
- Depression
- Visual impairment
- Attention deficit
- Reduced sense of smell
- Difficulties planning and acting on ordinary tasks
No specific test currently exists for Parkinson’s disease. PD is not fatal, but disease complications can be serious.
Current Parkinson’s Statistics
About 1 million people in the United States are living with Parkinson’s disease, and approximately 90,000 receive a PD diagnosis each year. Men are 1.5 times more likely to have Parkinson’s than women. And although most people diagnosed are older adults aged 60 and up, about 5 percent to 10 percent of patients are diagnosed before age 50.
According to estimates from a 2020 study, direct and indirect costs of Parkinson’s, including treatment, lost income, and Social Security payments, account for nearly $52 billion in U.S. expenditures annually.
Studies of large and diverse populations have sought to address questions about PD’s causes, prevalence, and the types of treatments that may most improve quality of life for people with Parkinson’s. Much research focuses on identifying PD biomarkers, which could lead to earlier diagnosis and tailored treatments to slow the disease process. While current therapies can improve symptoms, they don’t halt disease progression.
Why Legal Planning Matters After a Parkinson’s Diagnosis
Because Parkinson’s disease is progressive, early legal planning is crucial—even when symptoms are mild or manageable. Taking steps now ensures your healthcare preferences are respected and your financial affairs are protected, easing the burden on your loved ones.
Without early planning, families may face stressful and costly court interventions, such as guardianship proceedings, if you become unable to make decisions yourself.
Practical Legal Steps for Parkinson’s Patients
An elder law attorney can assist with:
- Durable Power of Attorney: Appoints someone to manage your finances and legal matters if you become incapacitated, avoiding court control.
- Advance Health Care Directive / Living Will: Documents your medical treatment preferences in advance, providing guidance during critical health decisions.
- Medicaid and Long-Term Care Planning: Helps protect your assets and qualify for government assistance programs to cover care costs.
- Estate Planning and Trusts: Ensures your assets are managed according to your wishes and can reduce probate costs and delays.
Planning ahead helps you retain control over your care and finances, providing peace of mind to you and your family.
Helpful Resources on Parkinson’s Disease
Search your ZIP code on the Parkinson’s Foundation website for medical centers and Parkinson’s Foundation chapters near you that may offer guidance or treatment. Their website also provides free online educational resources, including podcasts, courses, and event info. To speak with specialists, call their helpline weekdays at 1-800-4PD-INFO or email [email protected].
The American Parkinson Disease Foundation has local chapters nationwide offering support groups, exercise classes, therapy services, and more.
The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research offers many free online resources as well.
If you are facing a PD diagnosis, maintaining your physical and mental health is a priority. Participating in a clinical trial can also help researchers better understand and treat this disease.
Get Help With Legal Planning for Parkinson’s Disease
A Parkinson’s diagnosis can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate the legal and financial planning process alone. We can help you draft essential documents, protect your care choices, and plan for the years ahead.
Contact us to begin your legal planning and secure peace of mind for yourself and your family.
Contact Mazenko Law Firm today
