Drug therapy for Parkinson's disease in the elderly

The diagnosis and management of Parkinson's disease in the elderly is complicated by the common presence of multiple pathology and age related changes in drug handling. Accurate diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion combined with careful assessment before and after a trial of therapy. A multidisciplinary approach is required to help the patient, and their carer, cope with the fundamental disabilities resulting from Parkinson's disease. The elderly are more susceptible to side effects from antiparkinsonian medication and close supervision is therefore essential.