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- [Home](/)
- [Resources & Support](/resources-support)
- [Parkinson's Today Blog](/resources-support/blog)
 
  

 

   Tips for Daily Living 

#  Staying Active: Hobbies and Leisure Pursuits 

 Apr 15, 2019 

 

    ![Couple biking outside](/sites/default/files/styles/no_sizing/public/images/stayactive-bloghero.png?itok=JeHN0pCL)  Enjoyable activities are essential to replenish mind, body and spirit. It is is important for people with Parkinson's disease (PD) and [care partners](https://www.parkinson.org/resources-support/carepartners) to stay active through physical, mental and social stimulation and to engage in activities that promote relaxation.

### **Important Considerations for Leisure Activities:**

- Set aside time in your calendar for leisure activities in your week to make sure they happen.
- Consider trying new activities and/or exercise classes. Call our free Helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO (473-4636) to find a PD-specific class near you.
- Schedule the time of your leisure activity to coordinate with your “on” time. Remember to take your medications with you to ensure dosage schedules stay on time.
- Stretch before engaging in any physical activity to prevent muscle strain.
- Join a group or take a class to explore new hobbies and/or connect with others with similar interests.
- Balance activity and rest to reduce fatigue. A variety of interests may provide opportunities for both active and more sedentary leisure pursuits.
- Try simple adaptations to your leisure interests. Build up golf club grips for a better swing; install a handrail on the dock to make getting in and out of the boat easier; experiment with a recumbent bicycle; or build raised beds in your garden.
- Be aware that Parkinson's can make movements slower, smaller or affect balance reflexes. Use common sense and "test the waters" before beginning activities.
- Invite others to join you in your leisure activities.
- Get creative. Try writing, painting, photography, ceramics, knitting or other creative possibilities. Creative expression is an important component to quality of life.

### **Involving your team**

An occupational, physical or recreational therapist can provide assessment and recommendations for current leisure pursuits, make suggestions for exploring new options or provide assistance in making adaptations if needed.

**For more information about [managing Parkinson's](https://www.parkinson.org/living-with-parkinsons/management), [PD resources](https://www.parkinson.org/resources-support), [financial matters](https://www.parkinson.org/living-with-parkinsons/legal-financial) and [personal stories](https://www.parkinson.org/living-with-Parkinsons/my-pd-story/submit) visit [Living with Parkinson's](https://www.parkinson.org/living-with-parkinsons).**

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