The survivability of Parkinson’s disease in Colorado, like in many places, depends on several factors including the progression of the disease, access to medical care, lifestyle, and supportive treatments. Parkinson’s disease is a chronic, progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects movement, but it also impacts many other bodily functions over time. It is not directly fatal, but complications related to the disease can affect life expectancy.
In Colorado, Parkinson’s disease mortality rates have shown a notable increase over recent years. Between 2019 and 2023, the number of deaths attributed to Parkinson’s rose by about 12.2%, from 592 to 664 deaths annually. The age-adjusted mortality rate in 2023 was approximately 10.6 deaths per 100,000 people, ranking Colorado 13th highest among U.S. states for Parkinson’s mortality. This indicates that while Parkinson’s is not among the most common causes of death, it remains a significant health concern in the state.
Survivability is influenced by how well symptoms are managed and the overall health of the individual. Parkinson’s symptoms worsen over time, but progression rates vary widely. Some people live many years with manageable symptoms, while others experience rapid decline. Key factors that improve survivability include early diagnosis, comprehensive care, and maintaining physical activity.
Research and clinical experience emphasize the importance of staying active, even during hospital stays, to improve outcomes. For example, patients with Parkinson’s who engage in frequent mobilization—such as walking, standing, or range-of-motion exercises—tend to have shorter hospital stays and better chances of returning home rather than to hospice care. Staying active also significantly reduces the risk of death within 30 to 90 days after hospitalization. This highlights the critical role of physical therapy and exercise in prolonging life and improving quality of life for people with Parkinson’s.
Treatment options in Colorado, as elsewhere, include medications that manage symptoms and advanced therapies like deep brain stimulation (DBS), which can reduce motor symptoms by 50% or more in many patients. Access to specialized neurologists and movement disorder clinics in Colorado can help tailor treatments to individual needs, potentially improving survival and quality of life.
Lifestyle factors also play a crucial role. A balanced diet, stress reduction, and good sleep hygiene can mitigate some symptoms and improve overall health. Support systems, including family, caregivers, and Parkinson’s support groups, contribute to better mental health and adherence to treatment plans.
End-of-life care options in Colorado, including the state’s End-of-Life Options Act, provide terminally ill patients with legal means to manage their final days, but Parkinson’s disease itself usually leads to complications over a longer timeframe rather than immediate terminal prognosis.
In summary, while Parkinson’s disease mortality in Colorado has increased somewhat in recent years, survivability depends heavily on early and ongoing management, physical activity, access to specialized care, and supportive lifestyle choices. People living with Parkinson’s in Colorado benefit from a range of medical and community resources aimed at extending life expectancy and enhancing quality of life despite the progressive nature of the disease.
