Living with YOPD

Living with young onset Parkinson’s disease (YOPD) comes with unique challenges. People diagnosed with YOPD often have different emotional, social, physical, and psychological needs than those diagnosed at an older age.

That’s why we’re committed to providing resources tailored to people with YOPD. We want you to have the education, support, and tools that can help you navigate YOPD with confidence, no matter your age.

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Living Well with YOPD

Young onset Parkinson’s disease (YOPD) is Parkinson’s with symptoms that began when a person was under age 50. This is sometimes called early onset Parkinson’s disease (EOPD). We have chosen to use the term YOPD, following the recommendation of members of our community who live with YOPD.

For people with YOPD, pain and non-motor symptoms are more common early symptoms than they are for people living with later-onset Parkinson’s. These early symptoms can lead to delays in diagnosis and more frequent misdiagnosis–for example, with orthopedic issues or depression, as these are generally more common in younger people than Parkinson’s.

In YOPD symptoms often progress more slowly than later-onset Parkinson’s. Compared to later-onset Parkinson’s, people with YOPD are more likely to have one or more genetic risk factor, and they tend to live longer with Parkinson’s and to have a stronger response to medication, which may include an earlier onset of motor fluctuations and dyskinesias.

Living with YOPD often involves balancing Parkinson’s symptoms with careers, parenting, or caring for aging parents. These overlaps can cause particular challenges that require tailored support.

With a thoughtful, individualized treatment plan, you can live well with YOPD for many years to come. Many people with YOPD tell us their care is best when they have a Parkinson’s specialist on their team. Most often this is a movement disorder specialist, but what matters most is finding a care provider you trust and who understands YOPD.

Women with YOPD

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Connect with an Ambassador

Living well with Parkinson’s starts with connection. Our Ambassadors understand life with Parkinson’s and are here to talk, share resources, and offer support. With over 130 Ambassadors across the U.S. and beyond, you’re never far from someone who gets it.