Living with Parkinson’s

Parkinson’s disease affects everyone in different ways. Some people have mild symptoms for years. Others experience more rapid changes. No matter the path, many people continue to live well by staying active, building a strong care team and finding the right support.

This guide offers tips for managing symptoms, staying safe, supporting loved ones and connecting with others.

How can I manage daily life with Parkinson’s disease?

Living with Parkinson’s disease often means adjusting routines to stay safe and independent.

Managing symptoms often starts with the right treatment plan. Learn more about treatment options for Parkinson’s disease.

Managing common Parkinson’s symptoms

Parkinson’s disease can cause many symptoms. These include:

• Tremors (shaking)
• Muscle stiffness
• Slowed movement
• Balance issues
• Fatigue
• Speech or facial changes
• Anxiety or depression
• Memory and thinking problems

Because Parkinson’s affects many parts of the body, care is typically managed by a team of specialists. Your care team may include:

• A neurologist who specializes in movement disorders
• Nurses
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Speech therapy
• Pharmacists
• Social workers
• Neuropsychologists, psychologists and counselors
• Neurosurgeons
• Palliative care providers

Treatment often includes medicine and therapy. If medications aren’t effective enough, your provider may discuss options like deep brain stimulation (DBS). 

Learn more about treatment options.

Exercise, nutrition and sleep tips for Parkinson’s disease

Staying active can help you stay mobile, reduce stiffness and boost mood. Good activities include:

• Walking
• Swimming or water aerobics
• Yoga or tai chi
• Resistance or strength training
• Dance therapy

A well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains supports overall health and eases constipation, a common issue in Parkinson’s. Staying hydrated is also important.

Sleep problems like insomnia, vivid dreams or daytime sleepiness are also common. Talk to your health care provider about changes in sleep quality or fatigue.

How can I stay safe at home with Parkinson’s disease?

Simple changes around the house can help prevent falls: 

• Install grab bars near toilets and in showers or tubs
• Use non-slip mats in bathrooms and kitchens
• Remove throw rugs and electrical cords from walkways
• Make sure stairs and entries are well lit
• Use a shower chair and a hand-held showerhead
• Keep daily-use items within easy reach

Home health professionals or occupational therapists can help identify specific risks and recommend modifications or assistive equipment, such as walkers, canes or utensils designed for tremor control. 

Driving and transportation tips for Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson’s may affect your ability to drive safely. This includes slower reaction time, poor balance or medication side effects. 

If you have concerns, ask for a professional driving test. Some people may need to stop driving and switch to other transportation options. Planning ahead can help you stay independent.

Planning ahead for Parkinson’s disease care

Because Parkinson’s is a progressive condition, with symptoms developing over time, it’s important to plan while you’re still able to make decisions.

Legal and financial planning for Parkinson’s disease

Legal documents can give your loved ones guidance and reduce stress. These may include: 

• A durable power of attorney for health care and finances
• An advance directive or living will
• A will or estate plan

You may also want to talk with an elder law attorney or financial advisor about long-term care coverage and managing medical costs or disability benefits.

What are long-term care options for Parkinson’s disease?

As needs change, different types of care may help:

• In-home care: Help with bathing, cooking, mobility and medication reminders
• Adult day programs: Supervised activities and socialization in a supervised setting
• Assisted living communities: Residential facilities offering support with personal care and household tasks
• Skilled nursing facilities: Medical and rehab care for complex needs

Choosing the right care depends on your health, preferences and support system.

When to consider palliative or hospice care for Parkinson’s disease

These services focus on comfort and quality of life, especially in later stages of Parkinson’s.   

Palliative care: You can start palliative care at any time, even shortly after diagnosis to help manage symptoms and provide emotional and spiritual support. A palliative care team may include doctors, nurses, chaplains and social workers.

Palliative care is not the same as hospice care and can be provided alongside active treatment.

Hospice care: Hospice care is for people in the final stage of illness who are no longer receiving treatments to cure the disease. It offers:

• Comfort-focused medical care
• Help with pain and symptoms
• Emotional and spiritual support
• Family counseling and grief support

Hospice services can be delivered at home, in a facility or a hospital.

Support groups and social connection for Parkinson’s disease

Support groups and community programs can help you feel less alone.

How Parkinson’s support groups can help

Support groups bring people together to share experiences, strategies and emotional support. Groups may be geared toward:

• People with early- or late-stage Parkinson’s
• Young adults with Parkinson’s
• Spouses, partners or caregivers

Some groups meet in person, online or by phone. They may be led by professionals or peers. 

Whether you are living with Parkinson’s or supporting someone with the condition, connecting with others can be a powerful source of strength and hope. Many participants say these groups help them feel heard, understood and better prepared.

Looking for support? Join the Banner Health Parkinson’s and Care Partners support group.

Community resources for Parkinson’s disease support

Nonprofit organizations, senior centers, and local health systems may offer:

• Rides to appointments
• Home-delivered meals
• Health and wellness classes
• Educational events
• Counseling services
• Financial assistance

Ask your neurologist, social worker or health care provider for referrals. You can also reach out to national Parkinson’s associations for help navigating local options.

Support and resources for Parkinson’s caregivers

Caring for someone with Parkinson’s can be rewarding but also challenging. Without regular support, caregivers may face stress, anxiety, depression and burnout.

Here are some ways to support caregiver well-being:

• Stay informed: Learn about Parkinson’s and what to expect over time.
• Join appointments: Attend medical visits to stay up to date and advocate for your loved one.
• Take breaks: Make time to relax, exercise or connect with friends.
• Use respite care: Temporary relief care allows caregivers time to recharge.
• Seek counseling: Professional mental health support can help you manage emotions.
• Connect with peers: Caregiver support groups offer understanding, advice and encouragement.

You’re not alone in living with Parkinson’s

Whether you’re managing symptoms yourself or caring for a loved one, support is available.

At Banner Health, we offer expert care, support groups and resources to help you live well with Parkinson’s disease.

Find a Parkinson’s specialist near you or join our Parkinson’s and Care Partners Support Group today.