Thank you! My mom was not actually diagnosed with the Parkinson's part, but the cerebellar ataxia bit. We went to U of Iowa hospitals for several baselines before coming to Mayo. They had several initial diagnoses including alcoholism (nope), stress disorders and low blood pressure, which explained the dizziness. They told us later that she was difficult to pin down because of how slowly the disease was progressing (much slower than the expected rate, apparently). There were many symptoms of Parkinson's present, but they ruled that out fairly early on. I noticed weaving and slurred speech, as early as 2009, but I know she was presenting with confusion, poor coordination, specifically handwriting, as much as a year to 18 months earlier than that. She passed away February 2018, a fierce spirit to be sure. Of course there is an ocean liner of things I have left out, but again, if our experience can be of any help, I am happy to share. I wish I had known about this platform for answers or direction.. or just support!
To answer the last bit, yes, she did physical and occupational therapies - recumbent biking, walking of course, dexterity balls for her hands and fingers... continued until the rigidity would no longer allow movement.