Parkinson's disease is a neurological condition caused by a deficit of dopamine, a neurotransmitter. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) state that cells that produce dopamine are destroyed, preventing information from being sent; this results in movement problems. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) state that when the patient reaches the late stage of Parkinson's disease, the symptoms will interfere in his ability to care for himself. The Mayo Clinic adds that while symptoms can be on both sides of the body, they will be worse on one side.
Tremors
One of the main symptoms of Parkinson's disease is tremors, though the NINDS notes that they worsen in the late stage and interfere in daily activities. According to the NIH, Parkinson's disease tremors occur when the limb is at rest or when it is extended. The tremors begin in the arms and legs but spread to the head, lips, tongue and feet in advanced cases. Another type of tremor experienced with Parkinson's disease is finger-thumb rubbing, which is also known as a pill-rolling tremor.
Dementia
The Mayo Clinic states that in the late stage of Parkinson's disease, the patient can develop dementia, another neurological disorder. Dementia affects the patient's memory and thinking and can also impair the patient's ability to care for herself. The NIH states that problems understanding spoken language, agitation, short-term and long-term memory problems, social withdrawal and difficulty reading and writing are possible symptoms of dementia.
Movement Problems
Movement problems, which are one of the first symptoms of Parkinson's disease, become increasingly worse in the later stages. One movement problem is bradykinesia, which the Mayo Clinic states results in limited voluntary movement; the NIH adds that a shuffling gait, slowed movement and rigid muscles also limit the patient's mobility. Automatic movements, like blinking and smiling are also affected by Parkinson's disease; the Mayo Clinic states that in the late stage, the patient can lose these movements. This can result in a mask-like appearance.
