I was diagnosed ten years ago. I am still walking, driving, going up and down steps, and for the most part I am in good shape. My biggest complaint is lower back pain and difficulty lying in bed, turning over in bed, and getting out of bed - a real chore. I have also become slower in doing things when my meds are wearing off. I am certainly not who I was ten years ago, and I get depressed by that, but to the casual observer, I look as though nothing is wrong with me. Only a fellow person with Parkinson's could spot that I have it. My understanding is that the rate you are declining is pretty steady over the years if you have regular Parkinson's. The best predictor of your father's future is based on how he has done so far.

Ann