Essential tremor is a condition that can make it difficult for older adults to do things for themselves, like eating, tying shoes, or writing. It is a condition that affects the nervous system and causes parts of the body to develop an involuntary rhythmic shaking motion. Essential tremor can happen in any body part, but it is most common in the hands. It’s not dangerous, but it can get worse as time goes on, making some tasks even harder.

March is National Essential Tremor Awareness Month, so now is a good time to learn more about the condition so that you can recognize it if it happens in your aging relative.

What Are the Symptoms of Essential Tremor? 

The symptoms of essential tremor include:

• Shaking of the hands, legs, head, arms, or torso that appears rhythmic.
• Head nodding “yes” or shaking “no” repeatedly.
• Tremor that worsens when the person tries to do simple tasks, like drinking from a glass.
• Tremors that get worse because of stress, caffeine, fatigue, or a change in temperature.
• Shaky voice.
• Tremors that get better with rest.
• Balance problems.

Is Essential Tremor Different from Parkinson’s?

Many people associate tremors with Parkinson’s disease. However, there are differences between the conditions, such as:

• Timing: The tremors associated with Parkinson’s disease most commonly occur when the hands are at rest. Essential tremor occurs when the hands are being used.
• Areas Affected: Tremors from Parkinson’s typically begin in the hands, and then affect the legs, chin, and other body parts. Essential tremors mostly affect the hands, voice, and head.
• Other Conditions: Essential tremors don’t bring on other health issues. However, Parkinson’s causes a shuffling gait, stooped posture, and slower movements.

What Are the Risk Factors of Essential Tremor?

Doctors have positively identified only two risk factors for essential tremor. They are:

• Age: People who are 40 and older are more at risk.
• Genetics: Essential tremor is linked to a gene that is passed down from a person’s parents.

Essential tremor cannot be prevented, and the risk factors cannot be controlled. However, when the symptoms are severe enough to interfere with the senior’s life, there are treatments available.

If your aging relative suffers from essential tremor, a homecare provider can assist them with the tasks that they find too difficult. Homecare providers can hold a water glass so the senior can drink. They can also help the senior to eat if holding a fork or spoon causes tremors. In addition, homecare providers can perform housekeeping tasks, like sweeping floors, vacuuming, and doing laundry.

Sources:  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/essential-tremor/symptoms-causes/syc-20350534

https://www.webmd.com/brain/essential-tremor-basics#1

https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Tremor-Fact-Sheet

If you or an aging loved one are in need of Homecare Services in Massapequa NY or the surrounding areas, contact the caring professionals at Star Multi Care Services today at (631)956-8835. We are the Right Choice for Home Health Care Services!

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Stephen Sternbach

CEO at Star Multi Care Services

With over 35 years of experience, Stephen Sternbach has been the Chairman of the Board of Directors, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Star Multi Care Services since 1987. After the sale of the New York and New Jersey operations of Star Multi Care Services, Sternbach brought the company private where he remains President and CEO of this 40-million dollar company. With Sternbach at the helm, Star Multi Care Services employs more than 650 employees, in six offices throughout Florida, Pennsylvania, Ohio and New York.

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