Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by tremors, rigidity, slowness of movement, and postural instability, resulting from the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. Non-motor symptoms can include sleep disturbances, mood changes, cognitive decline, and autonomic dysfunction. While medications and therapies can alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life, Parkinson's disease typically worsens over time and can lead to significant disability. From an insurance perspective, the condition presents increased mortality and morbidity risk, with underwriting outcomes heavily influenced by age at onset, severity of symptoms, response to treatment, and presence of complications such as falls or dementia.

In underwriting practice, advisors encounter Parkinson's disease when clients disclose diagnoses or when neurology records appear in attending physician statements. Underwriters seek detailed information about functional status, medication regimens, use of assistive devices, and any hospitalizations or episodes of psychosis or dementia. Early-stage Parkinson's with good symptom control and relatively preserved independence may still qualify for carefully rated life coverage at certain carriers, while advanced disease with frequent falls, cognitive decline, or nursing care needs often leads to declines, especially for disability or long-term care products. Advisors can add value by obtaining comprehensive neurologist reports describing disease trajectory and daily functioning. They also set expectations honestly, exploring smaller face amounts or simplified issue options when fully underwritten coverage is not feasible. By understanding Parkinson's disease clinically and from a risk perspective, producers can counsel families compassionately and identify the most realistic insurance solutions available.