A new booklet aimed at helping people who are living with Parkinson’s disease has just been launched.

A Guide to Living with Parkinson’s – Tips & Tricks provides useful information on how to manage the condition. Parkinson's is a progressive neurological disease, the symptoms of which include tremors, stiffness and slow or hesitant speech. An estimated 6,000 people in Ireland are affected. There is currently no cure.

“Parkinson’s is a condition that requires adaptation. Therefore learning to pace oneself, prioritise goals and make use of physical, occupational and speech therapies will enhance a patient’s physical, intellectual, and emotional well-being, and can make all the difference in maintaining your independence and how you enjoy life,” explained Dr Helena Moore, a consultant neurologist at the Bon Secours Hospital in Tralee.

She pointed out that the new booklet contains tried and tested tips on how to manage Parkinson’s.

Also speaking about the condition, Una Anderson Ryan, chairperson of the Parkinson’s Association of Ireland (PAI), emphasised that it can affect each individual differently.

“Each person with the condition will have a different collection of symptoms and will respond differently to the various treatment options. This booklet will, we hope, prove beneficial to all those with Parkinson’s, as it is full of helpful information and tips on a wide range of relevant topics,” she said.

The booklet was developed by Lundbeck (Ireland) Ltd in conjunction with the PAI and in consultation with Parkinson’s patients. It is available free of charge from the PAI – call 1800 359 359.

For more information on Parkinson's disease, see http://www.parkinsons.ie