Parkinson's Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield Parkinson's facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What is the most common anxiety disorder seen in Parkinson's disease? → Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
2. Bradykinesia in Parkinson's disease is best described as: → Slowness of movement
3. What is the typical pattern of symptom onset in idiopathic Parkinson's disease? → Gradual onset, initially asymmetric (one-sided)
4. The Braak staging system for Parkinson's disease describes: → The caudal-to-rostral spread of Lewy body pathology through the brain
5. Young-onset Parkinson's disease (YOPD) is generally defined by the Parkinson's Foundation as a diagnosis occurring before what age? → Age 50
6. Which skin condition occurs significantly more frequently in Parkinson's disease patients compared to the general population? → Seborrheic dermatitis
7. For a patient with Parkinson's disease, levodopa is prescribed. The nurse should be aware of the following before administering the medication: → Levodopa may cause the side effects of orthostatic hypotension
8. What is the average age of onset for Parkinson's disease? → Around 60 years old
9. Pesticide exposure (particularly rotenone and paraquat) has been linked to Parkinson's disease because these chemicals: → Inhibit mitochondrial complex I and increase oxidative stress in dopaminergic neurons
10. Which therapy program specifically targets speech volume and quality in Parkinson's disease patients? → LSVT LOUD
11. A client with Parkinson's disease is being evaluated by a nurse. The following client behaviors help the nurse identify bradykinesia: → Lack of spontaneous movement
12. What is the relationship between alcohol consumption and Parkinson's disease symptoms? → Alcohol can worsen balance, increase fall risk, and interact with Parkinson's medications
13. Which type of head injury history has been associated with increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease? → Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
14. Exercise is recommended for Parkinson's disease primarily because: → It has neuroprotective potential and improves motor function, balance, and mood
15. The global prevalence of Parkinson's disease is projected to increase significantly in coming decades primarily because of: → Global aging of the population
16. Which brain region is most affected by neuronal loss in Parkinson's disease? → Substantia nigra
17. What type of hallucination is MOST commonly reported by Parkinson's disease patients? → Visual hallucinations
18. Which type of exercise has research shown may have neuroprotective effects and slow disease progression in Parkinson's patients? → High-intensity aerobic exercise
19. Which type of clothing fastener is most beneficial for Parkinson's patients who experience reduced hand dexterity? → Magnetic closures or Velcro instead of buttons
20. The term 'palilalia,' a speech symptom occasionally seen in Parkinson's disease, refers to: → Involuntary repetition of one's own words or phrases
21. Living in which type of setting has been associated with a higher risk of Parkinson's disease? → Rural areas
22. The Parkinson's Foundation Helpline (1-800-4PD-INFO) primarily provides which service to callers? → Free referrals to neurologists and support resources via trained staff
23. Which of the following is considered PROTECTIVE against developing Parkinson's disease based on epidemiological studies? → Caffeine consumption
24. Young-onset Parkinson's disease (YOPD) is defined as a diagnosis of Parkinson's before the age of: → 50
25. The laser cane used by some Parkinson's patients projects a line on the floor primarily to help with: → Freezing of gait by providing a visual target to step over
26. Which of the following best describes 'postural instability' in Parkinson's disease? → Difficulty maintaining an upright posture due to impaired balance reflexes
27. What is meant by 'young-onset Parkinson's disease'? → PD diagnosed in individuals under 50 years of age
28. Which beverage has epidemiological evidence suggesting it may reduce the risk of developing Parkinson's disease? → Caffeinated coffee
29. Which home modification specifically reduces fall risk during nighttime bathroom trips in Parkinson's patients? → Night lights along the path from the bedroom to the bathroom
30. Which vitamin deficiency has been associated with increased risk or severity of Parkinson's disease? → Vitamin D