Living with Essential Tremor

I started having right hand tremors about 10 years ago now. They have gradually progressed to where now I am getting them in my other hand and my head too. I am now 66 and folks look at me as if it is a normal thing for older people to have these. I inherited it from my father, though he died before his got as bad as mine. Hands at rest, I do not shake, but try to pick up a glass or utensil and I can’t hardly make it to my mouth.

Writing and drawing anymore are next to impossible so I use my computer. But it is interesting that there are days I can write quite well. I have also found that with this, I am much more anxious in general - and therefore in anxious moments the tremors increase. Also, if going up/down stairs or walking on uneven surfaces where I have to concentrate on my agility, my hands involuntarily shake.

I tried the test of seeing if alcohol would slow the shakes, but don’t really drink, so I am sure I didn’t imbibe enough to really give this an effective test - but I didn’t notice any difference. I guess my biggest concern is how fast this will progress, given my age, and will I reach a point of having to be cared for before I reach my demise. Feeding ones self is the main concern. When I go out, even now, I drink with my less effected hand and usually order sandwiches or hand-eaten foods. It does certainly make one self conscious. I never go where I have to carry my plate - nor carry a glass at a party. It does change ways you live!!! But I will always be thankful that it is not Parkinsons’ !!!!