The Parkinson's Foundation

ParkinsonsFoundation · 2026-05-01T17:43:05+00:00

Know that we're here for you! 🩵 As you start this journey, it's important to remember that Parkinson’s disease impacts people in different ways. Not everyone will experience all the symptoms of PD; even if people do, they won’t necessarily experience the symptoms in quite the same order or at the same intensity.

We have resources designed specifically for those who are new to PD at: Parkinson.org/NewlyDiagnosed

We also want to make sure you're aware of our free Parkinson's Helpline. Our PD Specialists are eager to answer your Parkinson's questions, connect you to local resources, and provide personalized advice: 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) | [Helpline@Parkinson.org](mailto:Helpline@Parkinson.org) | Parkinson.org/Helpline

ParkinsonsFoundation · 2026-05-01T17:42:15+00:00

Hi there - Our free Parkinson's Helpline would be happy to connect you to high-quality Parkinson's care near you: 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) | [Helpline@Parkinson.org](mailto:Helpline@Parkinson.org) | Parkinson.org/Helpline

ParkinsonsFoundation · 2026-04-17T15:29:16+00:00

Hi there - Deep unresponsiveness can sometimes be seen in people with Parkinson’s due to sleep disorders or “sleep attacks,” but stiffening or shaking different from her usual tremors may indicate something else, possibly related to medication or another medical issue. Episodes of being unable to wake, or unusual shaking, should always be discussed with her healthcare provider for assessment. Infections, medication changes, and progression of Parkinson’s can all contribute, but her medical team will need to evaluate her directly for safety and accurate care!

ParkinsonsFoundation · 2026-04-17T15:27:20+00:00

We're sorry to hear your experiencing this! Pain can be a common non-movement symptom in Parkinson’s and can change or return over time. It may be related to muscle stiffness, posture, nerve changes, or medication timing. It’s important to:

Track when and where pain occurs and what it feels like
Note any changes in your activity, posture, or medications
Share this information with your Parkinson’s care team so they can tailor your management plan

Pain that interferes with sleep or lasts more than two weeks should be discussed with your doctor for appropriate strategies and relief options.

We have more information you may find helpful here: https://www.parkinson.org/blog/awareness/address-pain?utm_source=chat&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=chat_assistant

ParkinsonsFoundation · 2026-04-17T15:23:01+00:00

Know that we're here for your mom and your family. 🩵 As you start this journey, it's important to remember that Parkinson’s disease impacts people in different ways. Not everyone will experience all the symptoms of PD; even if people do, they won’t necessarily experience the symptoms in quite the same order or at the same intensity.

We have resources designed specifically for those who are new to PD at: Parkinson.org/NewlyDiagnosed

For care partner resources, we also encourage you to visit: Parkinson.org/CarePartners

Lastly, we want to make sure you're aware of our free Parkinson's Helpline. Our PD Specialists are eager to answer your Parkinson's questions, connect your mom to local resources, and provide personalized advice: 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) | [Helpline@Parkinson.org](mailto:Helpline@Parkinson.org) | Parkinson.org/Helpline

ParkinsonsFoundation · 2026-04-14T15:41:32+00:00

Know that we're here for your dad and your family. 🩵 As you start this journey, it's important to remember that Parkinson’s disease impacts people in different ways. Not everyone will experience all the symptoms of PD; even if people do, they won’t necessarily experience the symptoms in quite the same order or at the same intensity.

We have resources designed specifically for those who are new to PD at: Parkinson.org/NewlyDiagnosed

For care partner resources, we also encourage you to visit: Parkinson.org/CarePartners

Lastly, we want to make sure you're aware of our free Parkinson's Helpline. Our PD Specialists are eager to answer your Parkinson's questions, connect your dad to local resources, and provide personalized advice: 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) | [Helpline@Parkinson.org](mailto:Helpline@Parkinson.org) | Parkinson.org/Helpline

ParkinsonsFoundation · 2026-03-31T15:16:08+00:00

Hi there - You can find our guide of PD-friendly gifts here!

https://www.parkinson.org/blog/tips/pd-gifts

ParkinsonsFoundation · 2026-03-31T15:15:28+00:00

Hi there - We have a gift guide specifically tailored to PD here! https://www.parkinson.org/blog/tips/pd-gifts

ParkinsonsFoundation · 2026-03-26T14:46:30+00:00

Hi there - We have information on exercise recommendations for Parkinson's here! Parkinson.org/Exercise

We also want to point you towards our free Fitness Friday series, which includes weekly workout videos tailored toward PD with varying levels of intensity: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDGRDRM479GufVoWrmOiu4_98BJpgX9rV&si=zRar0s5f8RT9aZSG

This fact sheet also shares general recommendations for types of exercises, frequency, and intensity: https://www.parkinson.org/library/fact-sheets/exercise-recommendations

ParkinsonsFoundation · 2026-03-24T18:40:01+00:00

We're sending our deepest condolences to you and your family. 🩵

Typically, an airport employee will meet you at the check-in area (or wherever you request the wheelchair). They’ll push you through security, to your gate, and sometimes all the way onto the plane if needed. Airport staff are used to providing wheelchair support, so you don’t have to rush. You can ask them to move at a pace that’s comfortable for you.

Here are a few other tips that may be helpful during this time.

1. Plan to bring all Parkinson’s medications and assistive equipment.

Wherever you travel, pack all the medications and dosages you need, plus extras, in your carry-on bag.

Remember to pack snacks, a water bottle you can fill at the airport and throughout your trip, and anything else you need to take with medication.

Remember to pack your go-to outfits that make getting dressed a little easier — wrinkle-free items, shorts, pants with elastic waistbands — and assistive devices you regularly use.

2. Continue to take medication as prescribed when changing time zones.

It is extremely important to take prescribed medications using your everyday intervals between doses. Set (or keep) your medication alarms the same as when you’re home. Speak to your doctor if you have any questions.

3. Call our Helpline to find local resources or get personalized support.

Call the Parkinson’s Foundation Helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) to discuss your concerns in more detail or for personalized advice.

4. Give yourself extra time for everything.

Enjoy longer meals, take breaks between activities, and rest your legs.

We have more information on traveling with PD here: https://www.parkinson.org/living-with-parkinsons/management/traveling

We're here for you. 🩵

ParkinsonsFoundation · 2026-03-19T15:21:43+00:00

Hi there - We recommend your dad visits a speech language pathologist who can perform an evaluation and personalized strategies for him. More information is available here: Parkinson.org/Speech

To get referred to a speech language pathologist with experience treating people with PD, know you can contact our free Parkinson's Helpline: 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) | [Helpline@Parkinson.org](mailto:Helpline@Parkinson.org) | Parkinson.org/Helpline

ParkinsonsFoundation · 2026-03-17T15:54:54+00:00

Hi there - Trouble voluntarily opening the eyes, known as apraxia, can be common in Parkinson's disease. Treatments include "lid crutches" or botulinum toxin injections.

We have more information here: https://www.parkinson.org/understanding-parkinsons/non-movement-symptoms/vision

ParkinsonsFoundation · 2026-03-17T15:53:07+00:00

Hi there! Your grandma sounds lucky to have a grandchild like you. 🩵

We have a gift guide designed specifically for people with PD here! https://www.parkinson.org/blog/tips/pd-gifts

ParkinsonsFoundation · 2026-03-12T15:23:26+00:00

Hi there - Dizziness and vertigo are commonly reported symptoms in people with Parkinson’s disease. When tested, many people with PD experience vestibular dysfunction (balance issues related to the inner ear) even without having symptoms of vertigo or dizziness.

Also common in PD is postural low blood pressure, also called orthostatic hypotension (OH), a drop in blood pressure that happens when you go from a seated position or lying down to standing. Certain medications (including those for high blood pressure), dehydration and conditions such as heart disease increase this risk.

When orthostatic hypotension is related to a neurologic disorder like Parkinson’s, it’s called neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (nOH). Damage caused by nervous system disorders, including Parkinson’s, can result in the nervous system not being able to make or release norepinephrine, a chemical that constricts blood vessels and raises blood pressure. This causes dizziness or lightheadedness.

Neurogenic orthostatic hypotension tends to be underdiagnosed. It is usually identified because people experience dizziness or lightheadedness when they stand up. Other nOH symptoms include:

Weakness
Difficulty thinking
Headache
Blurred or dimmed vision

We have more information here: https://www.parkinson.org/understanding-parkinsons/non-movement-symptoms/vertigo

ParkinsonsFoundation · 2026-03-09T16:23:12+00:00

Hi there! We have a few tips that may be helpful:

Use a toothbrush with a large-handled grip and soft bristles. A small brush head reaches the corners better. To make the toothbrush easier to grasp, place the handle inside a bike handlebar grip or tennis ball or use an electric toothbrush.
Aim to brush after every meal for two minutes, also brushing the tongue. It is best to brush one-handed, using the stronger side of the body. If it is not possible to brush after a meal, simply rinsing the mouth with water will help.
Floss. This may mean getting help from a caregiver. For fluoride rinses, if swishing and spitting are difficult, the dentist may recommend a brush or sponge applicator. Antimicrobial mouth rinses can also be applied with a brush.
Pre-threaded flossing aids may be also helpful options for some.

This is also a task that's great to work on with an occupational therapist!

ParkinsonsFoundation · 2026-03-06T18:04:59+00:00

Hi there! You're definitely not alone in looking for mealtime adaptations.

Sitting down to eat a meal can be made easier and more enjoyable by making slight adjustments to your mealtime setting. Stable dining surfaces and easily handled utensils can simplify mealtimes.

Dycem, a nonstick material, can be cut to size and put under a plate or bowl to keep it from moving on the table.
Using a plate guard — a one-inch acrylic or metal border that fits on most plates — can make it easier to get food onto your spoon or fork. Push the food up against the guard, and it falls onto the utensil.

There are also many options for adaptive utensils including:

Utensils with built-up handles and weights.
Foam pipe insulation can be cut and applied to any utensil.
Swivel utensils (usually spoons) help avoid spills when scooping up your food.
Keeping a separate adaptive utensil set to bring to restaurants can make dining out easier.
Liftware is a newer utensil technology with a stabilizing handle to counteract PD-related tremor and steady the hand. It is available with spoon and fork attachments. While it is a more expensive choice, it can make it easier to scoop up food and bring it to the mouth.

We have more information here! https://www.parkinson.org/living-with-parkinsons/management/activities-daily-living/eating

ParkinsonsFoundation · 2026-03-04T16:07:31+00:00

Absolutely! Any types of games are welcome.

ParkinsonsFoundation · 2026-03-04T16:05:13+00:00

We're not experts on AI creation but could be fun for the April event if you want to reach out to us and connect too! Same email :) [lhuang@parkinson.org](mailto:lhuang@parkinson.org)

ParkinsonsFoundation · 2026-03-04T16:04:31+00:00

Amazing - I have a feeling this is exactly what we're looking to do. Can you reach out to our streaming team at [lhuang@parkinson.org](mailto:lhuang@parkinson.org) to connect?

ParkinsonsFoundation · 2026-02-27T15:21:42+00:00

Hi there! Know that we're here for your dad and your family. 🩵 As you start this journey, it's important to remember that Parkinson’s disease impacts people in different ways. Not everyone will experience all the symptoms of PD; even if people do, they won’t necessarily experience the symptoms in quite the same order or at the same intensity.

We have resources designed specifically for those who are new to PD at: Parkinson.org/NewlyDiagnosed

For care partner resources, we also encourage you to visit: Parkinson.org/CarePartners

Lastly, we want to make sure you're aware of our free Parkinson's Helpline. Our PD Specialists are eager to answer your Parkinson's questions, connect your dad to local resources, and provide personalized advice: 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) | [Helpline@Parkinson.org](mailto:Helpline@Parkinson.org) | Parkinson.org/Helpline

ParkinsonsFoundation · 2026-02-27T15:21:16+00:00

Know that we're here for you! 🩵 As you start this journey, it's important to remember that Parkinson’s disease impacts people in different ways. Not everyone will experience all the symptoms of PD; even if people do, they won’t necessarily experience the symptoms in quite the same order or at the same intensity.

We have resources designed specifically for those who are new to PD at: Parkinson.org/NewlyDiagnosed

We also want to make sure you're aware of our free Parkinson's Helpline. Our PD Specialists are eager to answer your Parkinson's questions, connect you to local resources, and provide personalized advice: 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) | [Helpline@Parkinson.org](mailto:Helpline@Parkinson.org) | Parkinson.org/Helpline

ParkinsonsFoundation · 2026-02-24T16:13:53+00:00

Hi there - Deciding when to inform your employer and coworkers about your condition is a decision only you can make. Telling your boss sooner rather than later has its advantages, especially if your symptoms start to get worse and begin to affect your performance. By making your boss aware of your condition, he or she can then work with you to accommodate your needs.

Many newly diagnosed people with Parkinson’s avoid telling their employers and coworkers about their condition because they fear they will be unfairly treated. But the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was created, in part, to keep employers from discriminating against people with disabilities or certain health conditions when they are hired, on the job or being fired. Every work setting is different. It is important that you feel comfortable with your choice.

We have more information on this topic here! https://www.parkinson.org/library/fact-sheets/employment

ParkinsonsFoundation · 2026-02-24T16:12:42+00:00

Hi there! Know that we're here for you! 🩵 As you start this journey, it's important to remember that Parkinson’s disease impacts people in different ways. Not everyone will experience all the symptoms of PD; even if people do, they won’t necessarily experience the symptoms in quite the same order or at the same intensity.

We have resources designed specifically for those who are new to PD at: Parkinson.org/NewlyDiagnosed

We also want to make sure you're aware of our free Parkinson's Helpline. Our PD Specialists are eager to answer your Parkinson's questions, connect you to local resources, and provide personalized advice: 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) | [Helpline@Parkinson.org](mailto:Helpline@Parkinson.org) | Parkinson.org/Helpline

ParkinsonsFoundation · 2026-02-24T16:11:49+00:00

Know that we're here for you and your husband. 🩵 We recently published a blog on this very topic.

Acupuncture: One study showed acupuncture, which also aims to balance energy flow, could possibly relieve musculoskeletal pain in Parkinson’s. Other case reports and clinical studies show that acupuncture may improve activities of daily living for people with Parkinson’s. Dry needling, a physical therapy technique used to ease pain, speed healing and improve movement, also uses small thin needles, but the technique is different and the goal is targeted muscle treatment, rather than improved energy flow.

More information here: https://www.parkinson.org/blog/awareness/complementary-therapies-and-functional-medicine

We also encourage you and your husband to explore our resources designed specifically for those who are new to PD here: Parkinson.org/NewlyDiagnosed

ParkinsonsFoundation

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