While the disease affects people in unique ways, there are typical patterns of progression defined by five stages.
In the early stages of Parkinson’s, symptoms include mild shaking and stiffness.
As the disease advances, loss of balance and slow movement (bradykinesia) begin to impair daily function.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
Patients are said to have end-stage Parkinson’s disease at stages 4 and 5 of the disease.
Non-motor symptoms, which are symptoms not related to movement, may also be present in end-stage PD.
However, the symptoms of the disease create the conditions that ultimately lead to someone’s death.
Members of a hospice care team include a doctor, nurse, social worker, and home health aide.
WithMedicareinsurance coverage, two doctors are needed to certify a six-month-or-lessprognosis.
Most insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private health insurance, cover hospice care services.
They may also use general guidelines intended to cover an array of neurological disorders.
Primary respiratory problems are not typical in advanced PD.
All of these symptoms or circumstances are common in end-stage PD.
Some symptoms can lead to life-threatening complications.
Hospice care may be considered when patients have a life expectancy of six months or less.
If not eligible for hospice, patients can obtain similar symptom-easing benefits from palliative care services.
2021;11. doi:10.1038/s41598-021-86011-w
American Parkinson’s Disease Association.End-stage Parkinson’s disease and risk of death.
2023;14:1236296. doi:10.3389/fneur.2023.1236296
National Institute on Aging.What are palliative care and hospice care?
