8 Ways to Help Someone You Love Manage

Parkinson’s Disease

1. Learn everything you can about the disease

Parkinson’s disease is a movement disorder. If you’re a caregiver for

someone living with Parkinson’s, you’re likely familiar with some of the
symptoms of the disease. But do you know what causes its symptoms,
how the condition progresses, or what treatments can help manage it?
Also, Parkinson’s doesn’t manifest the same way in everyone.

To be the best ally for your loved one, learn as much as you can about
Parkinson’s disease. Do research on reputable websites like
the Parkinson’s Foundation, or read books about the condition. Tag
along for medical appointments and ask the doctor questions. If you’re
well informed, you’ll have a better idea of what to expect and how to
be the most help.

2. Volunteer to help out

Everyday responsibilities like shopping, cooking, and cleaning become

much more difficult when you have a movement disorder. Sometimes

people with Parkinson’s need help with these and other tasks, but they

may be too proud or embarrassed to ask for it. Step in and offer to run

errands, prepare meals, drive to medical appointments, pick up

medications at the drug store, and help with any other day-to-day

tasks they have difficulty with on their own.

3. Get active

Exercise is important for everyone, but it’s especially helpful for

people with Parkinson’s disease. Research finds that exercise helps

the brain use dopamine — a chemical involved in movement — more

efficiently. Fitness improves strength, balance, memory, and quality of

life in people with this condition. If your friend or loved one isn’t

staying active, encourage them to get moving by taking a walk

together every day. Or, sign up for a dance or yoga class together;
both of these exercise programs are helpful for improving

coordination.

4. Help them feel normal

A disease like Parkinson’s can interfere with the normalcy of

someone’s life. Because people may focus so much on the disease and

its symptoms, your loved one may start to lose their sense of self.

When you talk to your loved one, don’t constantly remind them that

they have a chronic disease. Talk about other things — like their

favorite new movie or book.

5. Get out of the house

A chronic disease like Parkinson’s can be very isolating and lonely. If

your friend or family member doesn’t get out much, take them out. Go

to dinner or a movie. Be prepared to make some accommodations —

like choosing a restaurant or theater that has a ramp or elevator. And

be ready to adjust your plans if the person doesn’t feel well enough to

go out.

6. Listen

it can be intensely upsetting and frustrating to live with a condition

that is both degenerative and unpredictable. Anxiety and

depression are common in people with Parkinson’s disease.

Sometimes just offering a shoulder to cry on or a friendly ear can be a

tremendous gift. Encourage your loved one to talk about their

emotions, and let them know you’re listening.

7. Look for worsening symptoms

Parkinson’s symptoms progress over time. Be aware of any changes in

your loved one’s walking ability, coordination, balance, fatigue, and
speech. Also, watch for changes in their mood. Up to 50 percent.
Trusted Source of people with Parkinson’s experience depression at
some point in the course of their disease. Without treatment,
depression can lead to faster physical declines. Encourage your loved
one to get help from a trained mental health professional if they are
sad. Make sure they make the appointment — and keep it. Go with
them if they need help getting to the doctor or therapist’s office.

8. Be patient

Parkinson’s can affect your loved one’s ability to walk quickly, and to
speak clearly and loudly enough to be heard. A speech therapist can
teach them exercises to improve the volume and strength of their
voice, and a physical therapist can help with their movement skills.

When having a conversation or going somewhere with them, be

patient. It may take them longer than usual to respond to you. Smile
and listen. Match your pace to theirs. Don’t rush them. If walking
becomes too difficult, encourage them to use a walker or wheelchair.
If speaking is a challenge, use other forms of communication — like
messaging through an online platform or email.