Can Parkinson's Disease be fatal?

I know this is a silly question, and is probably common knowledge, but I haven't been able to find out the answer to it. My grandfather (who is about 60 years old) has had Parkinson's for a while now, and I'd really like to know if it's something that can make you die. I'm hoping not, but whichever, I'd like to know. If anyone can help me out then thank you.

My nonno (grandpa) who is 94 suffers from parkinsons.

I found an FAQ on this disease...

Research shows that Parkinson's is not fatal. A recent study, however, indicates that "mortality is two to five times as high among affected persons as among age-matched controls resulting in a marked reduction in life expectancy."

Here is the link, click here...

Okay thank you, that was very helpful. Not exactly the most wonderful news, but it's better than it could have been!

My dad has Parkinson's. His was early onset, he was diagnosed in his mid-late 40s, and he's now 60-something. It's most definitely not fatal in itself. But it does deteriorate certain aspects of a person more rapidly than if the disease weren't present, such as cognitive and motor ability. So I guess theoretically it could still shorten a person's lifespan. However, the specific effects of Parkinson's can also vary from person to person quite a bit if I'm not mistaken.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is not fatal, but it can reduce longevity. The disease progresses more quickly in older than younger patients, and may lead to severe incapacity within 10 to 20 years.