Could Parkinson's be causing changes in your mom's worry and responsiveness?
Yes, Parkinson's can cause significant changes in motivation, mood, and emotional responses. What you're describing sounds like it could be apathy, which is a common symptom in Parkinson's disease.
Apathy appears as a loss of motivation or Show Full Answer
Could Parkinson's be causing changes in your mom's worry and responsiveness?
Yes, Parkinson's can cause significant changes in motivation, mood, and emotional responses. What you're describing sounds like it could be apathy, which is a common symptom in Parkinson's disease.
Apathy appears as a loss of motivation or seeming to "give up." People with Parkinson's may lose interest in activities they usually enjoy and show less emotional response to things that would have previously concerned them.
These changes can happen because Parkinson's affects brain chemicals that control mood, energy levels, and motivation. The shift from being a "worry wart" to not worrying or responding much could reflect these chemical changes in the brain.
Other related changes to watch for:
* Extreme mood changes that can vary from day to day or hour to hour
* Depression symptoms like feelings of helplessness or sadness
* Fatigue or low energy
* Changes in appetite
If your mom's lack of response is concerning or affecting her daily life, it's worth discussing with her healthcare provider. These symptoms can sometimes be managed with medication, therapy, or lifestyle adjustments.
January 15