People with Parkinson’s Share What’s Helped Them

Parkinson’s disease (PD) looks different for everyone. Symptoms vary, as do the ways people maintain and improve their quality of life. People with Parkinson’s often discover strategies that work best for them, whether it’s staying physically active, keeping mentally engaged, connecting with others or practicing gratitude.

The Parkinson’s Foundation offers a wide range of resources to help people manage their symptoms. Additionally, some of the most meaningful insights come from those living with Parkinson’s themselves.

We asked our social media community to share what has helped them live well with Parkinson’s. Here’s what they had to say:

Exercise and Movement

Staying physically active was one of the most popular strategies. Research shows that regular exercise can improve mobility, balance, mood and even cognitive function for people living with Parkinson’s. Many described movement not just as therapy, but as empowerment.

“Exercise and staying mentally active have helped me the most. I was diagnosed in 2018. Don’t give up. Sometimes I have to force myself to exercise, but I always feel better when I do.” - Val

“I was diagnosed at age 75 and I plan on being here for a long time. I exercise every day, walk a couple of miles, take my medication and listen to my doctor.” - Frank

“A dance class called Dance Health Alliance has helped me a lot. You can even do it sitting in a chair if you have balance issues. It’s definitely helped improve my walking.” - Christine

Exercise at home with our PD Health@Home Fitness Friday videos. Sign up for our next live Fitness Friday or check out our On-Demand videos right now.

Mental Engagement and Hobbies

Keeping the brain active can be just as important as keeping the body moving. Engaging in hobbies, learning new skills and staying mentally stimulated may support cognitive health and overall well-being.

For many, creative expression and intellectual engagement provide both joy and a sense of purpose.

“Learning new tunes and staying musically active has been a real benefit. I’ve been a professional musician for over 50 years and staying active in my music career — even at age 71 — has helped keep my Parkinson’s under control.” - Joe

“I write short stories, read, belong to a book club and take part in quizzes.” - Val

Mindset, Hope and Perspective

A positive outlook doesn’t erase the challenges of Parkinson’s — but many people shared that mindset plays a powerful role in how they navigate them.

“I was diagnosed 25 years ago, in my 40s and I’m now in my 70s. Focus on what you still have. If you have love, learning and laughter — even a friendly phone call or a good book — you are lucky.” - Fillis

“What truly helped me was hope with purpose. When I stopped seeing Parkinson’s as an ending and started seeing it as a teacher, everything changed. Healing isn’t just about the body — it’s about the mind, heart and spirit working together.” - Ellen

“After my diagnosis, I started learning about Parkinson’s and its treatments. I’ve learned to accept it, appreciate the small blessings, exercise, take my medication as prescribed and live with a positive attitude.” - Daisy

These reflections remind us that resilience can take many forms, including acceptance, gratitude, determination or simply continuing forward one day at a time.

Community and Support

Connecting with others who understand Parkinson’s can reduce isolation and provide encouragement. A strong online or in-person support network often makes a meaningful difference.

“As a woman in my 30s with young-onset Parkinson’s, community has helped me the most. Exercise is second and reading The Parkinson’s Plan has also been incredibly helpful.” - Erin

“Joining the Facebook group Life With Parkinson’s and accessing resources like yours has been extremely helpful. I also participated in an eight-week class for the newly diagnosed through my local hospital.” - Lin 

Many people living with Parkinson’s find that sharing experiences, learning together and supporting one another strengthens both confidence and quality of life.

Explore our Community Network groups that empower key groups within the PD community — including people who are newly diagnosed, women with PD, those with early-onset PD and more! Find your community.

Learning about PD

Learning more about Parkinson’s can bring clarity, reassurance and empowerment. Understanding movement and non-movement symptoms can help people feel more in control of their care.

“Education has helped me so much. I didn’t realize many of my symptoms were part of Parkinson’s. Learning about the disease helped me understand that I’m not crazy. Physical therapy has also made a huge difference.” - Sharon

When people understand what is happening in their brain and bodies, it can ease uncertainty and make it easier to advocate for the care they need.

Explore Parkinson’s resources that address your most concerning symptoms right now.

Living Well with Parkinson’s

Living well with Parkinson’s does not mean symptoms disappear — it means finding tools, support and perspective that help you move forward.

As these shared experiences show, there is no single path. What works for one person may look different for another, and that’s okay.

If you’re looking for support, resources or ways to connect, we are here to help. Explore resources and information at Parkinson.org or contact our Helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636).