There is no single life expectancy for someone with Parkinson’s. Many people with typical Parkinson’s live for many years and may have a normal or near-normal lifespan. Everyone progresses differently depending on age, overall health, symptoms, and response to treatment.

Parkinson’s itself is not usually the direct cause of death, but complications such as serious falls, swallowing problems, aspiration pneumonia, infections, and immobility can become life-threatening later on.

Parkinsonism is a broader term and includes atypical Parkinsonian disorders. Some of these conditions progress more quickly, are considered life-limiting, and have a shorter life expectancy than typical Parkinson’s.

Statistics describe groups of people; they cannot predict one person’s future. A neurologist or movement-disorder specialist who knows the exact diagnosis and medical history is the best person to discuss an individual outlook with.

Donna I might add that you get involved with exercise programs near you on a regular basis. The exercise is crucial and creates opportunities for socialization. As noted above working closely with your neurologist is important but I find that they are busy and can only see me twice each year. My neurologist is top notch and I appreciate all that he does for me but 2x per year is hardly working closely in my book. Instead I participate in Rock Steady boxing classes and other exercise classes offered nearby. The PTs give me advice and recommendations on a weekly basis and joining with other PD affected people is encouraging as well. I encourage you to find programs that work for you. Try looking into a local Neuro rehab facility associated with a hospital perhaps.

Thank you so much for a better way of looking at the disease

My father with Parkinson's lived to 96. My husband with PD is almost 87. Parkinson's doesn't usually kill someone directly. A bad fall or pneumonia caused by aspirating food are possibilities, but it is said that one dies with Parkinson's, not of Parkinson's.

I should have said “in addition” rather than “instead”. Sorry for the error.