“Did you know that People with Parkinson’s face prejudice that makes them hesitant to socialize or go out? It’s a harsh reality that needs more attention.”
Imagine being in a queue for your medication, minding your own business. Then someone comes up to you and accuses you of being drunk or high. Unfortunately, this is the reality for many people living with Parkinson’s disease, including Emma Tumelty, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2016 aged just 46. 22% of Parkinson’s patients have experienced this kind of prejudice, misinterpreting their symptoms as drunkenness or drug use.
The research by the charity Parkinson’s UK has revealed a shocking reality: thousands of people living with Parkinson’s disease are facing verbal abuse and false accusations of drunkenness or faking their disability due to a widespread lack of awareness and understanding about the condition.
Diagnosed with Parkinson’s at 34, Nicky Doyle faces misconceptions from strangers. While attending a festival, a man asked if she was drunk or on drugs due to her shaking. Nicky told him and had Parkinson’s. She first noticed shaking at 21 and has faced strange looks and laughter in public places. Nevertheless, Doyle remains positive and tells new people up front that she has Parkinson’s to combat ignorance surrounding the disease.
For people with Parkinson’s, the most urgent is minimizing social isolation. Take a look at this link: https://davisphinneyfoundation.org/how-to-reduce-social-isolation-while-living-with-parkinsons/
to learn more about reducing social isolation in individuals with Parkinson’s.”
Put an end to this treatment.
