What Causes Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s disease is a chronic and progressive neurological disorder that affects the body’s ability to control movement. It is most common in older adults, though in rare cases, it can also affect younger individuals. While the disease is well-known, its exact causes are still not fully understood. However, research suggests that both genetic and environmental factors play a role.

Genetic Factors

In about 10–15% of cases, Parkinson’s disease can be linked to heredity. Mutations in specific genes such as LRRK2, PARK7, PINK1, and SNCA have been shown to increase the risk of developing the disease. These mutations can disrupt the normal function of nerve cells, ultimately leading to their premature death. Still, having a genetic mutation does not guarantee the development of Parkinson’s—it simply increases susceptibility.

Environmental Factors

Beyond genetics, several external factors are believed to contribute to the onset of the disease. Long-term exposure to pesticides, heavy metals, and certain industrial solvents has been associated with a higher risk. Lifestyle factors like physical inactivity and certain dietary habits have also been discussed in research, although these connections are not yet fully established.

What Happens in the Brain?

Parkinson’s disease involves the gradual loss of nerve cells in a region of the brain called the substantia nigra. These cells are responsible for producing dopamine—a neurotransmitter essential for coordinating movement. As dopamine levels drop, symptoms like tremors, muscle stiffness, and slowed movements begin to appear.

The Link Between Parkinson’s and Dementia

In addition to movement-related symptoms, Parkinson’s can also affect cognitive function. Many people living with Parkinson’s develop dementia as the disease progresses, particularly in its later stages. Parkinson’s dementia is marked by memory issues, difficulty planning and executing tasks, and personality changes. This occurs because the disease impacts multiple areas of the brain—not just those controlling movement. As such, Parkinson’s should be viewed as a condition that affects the whole person, including both physical and mental health.

Sensorem’s safety alarm has GPS positioning, medication reminders and automatic fall alarm

Sensorem’s personal alarm is an example of a technical aid specially developed for people with dementia. The personal alarm works outdoors and has built-in GPS positioning so that relatives can see the user’s position on a map in the Sensorem app. Relatives are automatically called by the personal alarm (two-way communication) if the user leaves a predetermined geographical area. The personal alarm also has medication reminders, which means that the watch emits a sound and tells the user that it is time to take their medication. The personal alarm can also alert automatically in the event of a fall with the built-in fall sensor.