Key Takeaways:

  • Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement due to the degeneration of dopamine-producing nerve cells in the brain.
  • Parkinson’s disease affects mobility gradually, and the need for support can range from occasional assistance to a full-time wheelchair as symptoms progress.
  • Choosing the right mobility aid depends on your symptoms, and working with a mobility specialist can help you find the ideal solution.

Parkinson’s disease can change the way you move over time, but losing your independence doesn’t have to be part of the journey. As symptoms progress, everyday activities may start to feel more tiring or unsafe.

This guide explains how Parkinson’s can affect mobility, what to expect at each stage of the disease, and when a wheelchair might be needed to help you feel more confident and in control.

What Is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that mainly affects movement. It happens when the brain’s dopamine-producing nerve cells start to break down. Dopamine is what helps control smooth, coordinated movement, so when those cells are damaged, it can lead to symptoms like tremors, stiffness, or slower motion.

What Are the Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease?

Symptoms often start mild and get worse over time. That said, Parkinson’s looks different for everyone. Some people may only experience a slight tremor, while others may have more noticeable changes in mobility or balance. Some of the most common signs include:

  • Tremors: Uncontrolled shaking, usually starting in one hand or foot when the limb is at rest.
  • Slowed movement: Everyday tasks take longer and may feel harder to start or complete.
  • Muscle stiffness: Rigid muscles can make movement uncomfortable or limit flexibility.
  • Balance issues: Difficulty staying steady on your feet.
  • Speech and writing changes: A softer voice or smaller handwriting.

What Causes Parkinson’s Disease?

There isn’t one single cause of Parkinson’s disease. Instead, it’s thought to result from a mix of genetic and environmental factors. Some people may have a family history that increases risk, while long-term exposure to certain toxins and chemicals could also play a role.

Age is another factor. Parkinson’s most commonly affects people over 60 and is more often seen in men than women.

Do You Lose the Ability to Walk with Parkinson’s?

The short answer is not always. Parkinson’s disease affects everyone differently, and while some people may always be able to walk short distances, others gradually rely more on mobility aids as their symptoms progress.

Stages of Parkinson’s

Parkinson’s disease typically progresses through five stages. These stages aren’t exact for everyone, but they can help paint a picture of how mobility can evolve over time.

Stage 1

In the earliest stage, symptoms are usually mild and may only affect one side of the body. You might notice a slight tremor, a change in handwriting, or stiffness in one arm or leg. Walking and balance are generally unaffected, and most people can continue with their normal routines. Mobility aids aren’t usually needed, but gentle exercise and stretching can help keep you flexible.

Stage 2

By this stage, symptoms become more noticeable on both sides of the body. Movements may feel slower, and balance or posture may start to change. Walking might take more effort, and fatigue can set in more quickly. Many people begin using canes or walking poles to keep their balance. A lightweight transport chair might also be helpful for longer trips or days when energy levels are low.

Stage 3

This is often when mobility becomes more of a concern. Balance issues and slowed movement make falls more likely, and tasks like turning, standing from a chair, or walking across a room may feel more unsteady. Many people begin using a walker or manual wheelchair part-time at this point to conserve energy.

Stage 4

In Stage 4, mobility typically becomes a lot more limited, and walking may require full-time support. Many individuals transfer to a power wheelchair during this stage because it allows them to move independently without relying on a caregiver for every transfer. Seating features like tilting and reclining can also minimize soreness and strain from sitting for long periods.

Stage 5

This is the most advanced stage of the disease. Standing and walking without assistance aren’t typically possible, and full-time wheelchair use is likely. At this stage, comfort and accessibility are the top priorities. An assistive technology professional (ATP) may recommend a power wheelchair with postural support and adjustable positioning to make daily activities a bit more manageable. Some families also opt for specialized seating or home accessibility equipment to make caregiving easier and, most importantly, safer.

What Is the Best Wheelchair for Someone with Parkinson’s Disease?

As mentioned above, not everyone with Parkinson’s disease will need a wheelchair, but for many people, mobility aids can eventually become an important part of staying independent. Here’s an overview of the different wheelchair options and when each might make sense:

Transport Wheelchairs

Transport wheelchairs are designed for short-term use and need someone else to push them. They’re lightweight and great for outings or appointments when walking long distances feels overwhelming. While they don’t offer independent mobility, they can make travel and caregiving a lot easier.

Manual Wheelchairs

Manual wheelchairs are operated by the user’s arms or by a companion pushing from behind. They’re ideal for those who still have good upper body control but need more stability than a walker can provide. Over time, however, fatigue or hand tremors can make self-propelling more difficult.

Power Wheelchairs

Power wheelchairs offer a fully motorized way to move with minimal physical effort. Instead of pushing the wheels, users steer using a joystick or specialized controls that can be operated with the head, chin, or one hand.

Find the Right Mobility Solution with Freedom Mobility

At Freedom Mobility, we understand how important it is to find the right fit, not just for your body, but for your independence. If you or a loved one is living with Parkinson’s and struggling with mobility, call 800-980-5696 or fill out our contact form to set up a consultation today!