"Almost A Full-Time Job": Alan Alda On Living With Parkinson's At 89

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Post on May 24, 2025

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"Almost a Full-Time Job": Alan Alda on Living with Parkinson's at 89

At 89, Alan Alda, the beloved actor known for his roles in MASH* and The West Wing, continues to inspire with his grace and resilience in the face of Parkinson's disease. His recent reflections on living with the debilitating condition offer a poignant and powerful message of hope and perseverance. In a world often obsessed with youth and vitality, Alda's candid account reminds us of the strength found in embracing life's challenges, even those as formidable as Parkinson's.

Alda's journey with Parkinson's, which he publicly disclosed in 2018, is not one of quiet suffering. He actively combats the disease, viewing his daily struggles as a demanding, albeit rewarding, occupation. “It’s almost a full-time job,” he recently stated, highlighting the significant time and energy commitment required to manage the symptoms. This dedication underscores the profound impact Parkinson's has on daily life, impacting everything from motor skills to cognitive function.

<h3>The Challenges of Parkinson's: A Daily Battle</h3>

Living with Parkinson's is a multifaceted challenge. Alda's description of it as a "full-time job" accurately captures the constant effort required to maintain a semblance of normalcy. The symptoms, which vary significantly from person to person, can include:

• Tremors and Shaking: These involuntary movements can impact fine motor skills, making everyday tasks like writing or eating difficult.
• Rigidity and Stiffness: Muscles can become stiff and inflexible, leading to limited range of motion and mobility issues.
• Bradykinesia (Slow Movement): Simple actions can become slow and deliberate, requiring increased effort and concentration.
• Balance Problems and Falls: Loss of balance is a common symptom, significantly increasing the risk of falls and injuries.
• Cognitive Impairment: In some cases, Parkinson's can affect cognitive functions, leading to memory problems, confusion, and difficulty with decision-making.

<h3>Alda's Resilience and Advocacy</h3>

Despite these substantial challenges, Alda's response to his diagnosis has been remarkable. He hasn't retreated from public life; instead, he has used his platform to raise awareness and advocate for research into Parkinson's disease. This proactive approach exemplifies his unwavering spirit and commitment to making a difference. His advocacy includes:

• Public Speaking Engagements: Alda continues to engage in public speaking, sharing his personal experiences and inspiring others.
• Support for Research: He actively supports organizations dedicated to Parkinson's research, hoping to contribute to finding a cure or effective treatments.
• Promoting Understanding: His openness about his condition helps to reduce the stigma associated with Parkinson's and fosters greater understanding and empathy.

<h3>Hope and Inspiration in the Face of Adversity</h3>

Alan Alda's story offers a potent message of hope and resilience. His willingness to openly discuss his battle with Parkinson's, coupled with his tireless advocacy, serves as a beacon of inspiration for millions affected by this debilitating disease. He reminds us that even in the face of adversity, life can still be lived fully and meaningfully. His journey underscores the importance of perseverance, the power of human connection, and the unwavering spirit that can emerge even in the most challenging circumstances. His dedication to fighting Parkinson’s, both personally and through advocacy, continues to inspire us all. The "full-time job" he describes is not just a battle against disease, but a testament to the human spirit's enduring strength.