Aging or Parkinson’s? Here Are 13 Essential Ways You Can Tell

Changes in handwriting

Handwriting is a practice that requires fine motor skills – and Parkinson’s disease can have a negative impact in this case as well.

The medical term for this symptom is micrographia, a disorder that makes the affected person’s handwriting unusually small or cramped.

Micrographia can be a sign of many illnesses which affect the nervous system, especially neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson’s. If you notice any strange changes in your handwriting it’s definitely worth mentioning it to your doctor.

You should also be aware of other signs of dementia to make sure you detect them ahead of time.

Different posture

Unfortunately, walking isn’t the only physical activity that becomes affected by Parkinson’s disease. People in the early stages of the illness might have their posture affected as well.

Parkinson’s can cause muscle rigidity, which might make them bend forward as if they’re hunched or stooped over. This is an involuntary gesture that’s caused by a lack of balance and reduced neuronal capacities.

Of course, bad posture can also be a normal sign of aging; the difference is that in this case it can be corrected or adapted through practice and physical activity.