Adjusting to the Changes
Despite the challenges presented by Parkinson's and the related executive dysfunction some people experience, there are ways to compensate for these difficlties. Here are some helpful tips.
Beware of biting off more than you can chew. Taking on too much at a time can result in feeling overwhelmed, frustrated and exhausted.
Try to engage in one activity at a time. Avoid multi-tasking or switching back and forth between tasks.
When it comes to meal preparation, instead of preparing a meal alone, cook with a friend or family member. By distributing the work, one will be less likely to feel overwhelmed by the multi-tasking demands of meal preparation. In addition, one might reap the many benefits of good company!
When it comes to driving, build extra time into your schedule for the commute. Giving yourself a cushion of time can decrease the stress associated with arriving at your destination on time, and can give you additional decision making time when you're faced with a confusing traffic situation. Don't try to do anything else while driving. You need to reduce your distractions and focus only on the important task of driving. Turn off the radio, limit conversation, and keep your thougts on the task at hand.
Alternatively, allow yourself to be chauffeured. Occasionally handing off the car keys and savoring the opportunity to view the passing scenery is a nice break from the demands of driving. Plus, you might find yourself delighted by the companionship of your escort for the day.
When it comes to balancing your checkbook, ask a friend or family member to check your math. If privacy is a concern, your financial institution may be able to assist with bookkeeping or suggest a private contractor.
Use external aids to help with planning and organizing. Write things down then organize or sequence the information from your written copy.
Stay organized. Have specific places for specific things and always return them to that spot.
Use a day planner. Write down your daily schedule ahead of time so that you can plan your day in advance.
Finally, keep in mind that you are only one person with natural human limitations. Take your time and don't be afraid to ask for help.

This article is reprinted from the July/August issue of the Parkinson's Post with permission from the Northwest Parkinson's Foundation. Martha Blisky is a neuropsychologist at the Booth Gardner Parkinson's Care Center in Kirkland, Washington, and Brenda Havellana is a doctoral student at Seattle Pacific University.

If five or more of these symptoms are present every day for at least two weeks and interfere with routine daily activities such as work, self-care, and childcare or social life, seek an evaluation for depression.

**Note: "Brain Molecule May Lead to New Depression Treatments"
Scientists have discovered a protein that seems to play a crucial role in developing depression, a finding that may lead to new treatments for the often debilitating illness - and fundamental understanding of why it strikes.
Although problems with the mood regulating brain chemical serotonin have long been linked to depression, scientists don't know what causes the disease that afflicts some 18 million Americans, or exactly what serotonin's role is.
The newly found protein, named p11, appears to regulate how brain cells respond to serotonin, researchers from Rockefeller University and Sweden's Karolinska Institute reported in the journal Science.
"We're all very excited about this discovery," said Nobel laureate Paul Greengard, a Rockefeller neuroscientist who led the research. "People have been looking for modulators of serotonin for a long time."

Tip and Suggestions
Attachable plate guards provide a rim on one side of the plate. Food, such as small vegetables, can be pushed against the guard, where it falls onto the fork. 'Scoop dishes' contoured with raised edges, plates with suction cups and plate guards - all help prevent spills and are readily available.
If eating is slow, use a plate with a hot water container attached to the underside to keep food hot.
Silverware with built-up plastic handles are easy to grasp.
Use a soup spoon instead of a fork for small pieces of food.
Flexible plastic straws can reduce spills when tremor exists.
A light weight mug with a large handle for easy grasping is useful when tremor is severe.
Source: American Parkinson Disease Association pamphlet

Editorial Tip from Nancy
When eating in a restaurant, ask the waitress to have your meat cut in the kitchen before they serve it. Most restaurants are happy to accommodate you.