Parkinson’s disease is a movement disorder caused by the loss of nerve cells in certain parts of the brain. According to the American Parkinson’s Disease Association, more than 10 million people worldwide live with Parkinson’s, including about 1 million in the United States. Parkinson’s disease is especially common in people over 50. These patients often fall while walking, which may cause serious injuries. It is essential to improve the environments of Parkinson’s disease patients and provide them with ways to reduce fall risks. Studies have shown that practicing tai chi can reduce the number of falls patients suffer.
Why are Parkinson’s disease patients prone to falls? High muscle tension in the front torso causes the person to lean forward, throwing off balance. Parkinsonian gait, as it is called, makes a person take small and unsteady steps. In turn, patients speed up their pace, thus making them easier to fall. Moreover, people with Parkinson’s disease often have eyesight problems, with double or blurred vision that makes it difficult to see the path in front of them. As the disease progresses, their body’s physical activities decrease, and their muscle strength weakens.
