Parkinson's Today Blog

Not sure what to get your loved one with Parkinson’s disease (PD) for an upcoming holiday or birthday?

With climbing COVID-19 numbers, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends not traveling for the holidays. If you are planning to visit members of your family this holiday season, we have information and planning tips to help get you through the rest of this year.

Historically described as being on opposite ends of the spectrum, apathy affects about 40% of people with Parkinson’s disease (PD), while impulse control disorders (ICDs) affect between 14% and 40% of people with PD. How are they different?

People living with Young Onset Parkinson’s disease (YOPD) are often in the prime of their career when diagnosed ― typically before age 50. Navigating Parkinson’s disease (PD) in the workplace can create distinct challenges and questions, such as how to work around symptoms or who to tell and when.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) estimates that 110,000 veterans have Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Most people with Parkinson’s develop symptoms at 50 years of age or older. As our population ages, so will the number of Americans living with Parkinson’s, along with the number of veterans diagnosed with the disease. While living with Parkinson's can be challenging, an early diagnosis and beginning treatment can help people live well with Parkinson's.

Whether helping a spouse or parent acclimate to the news of a new Parkinson’s disease (PD) diagnosis to caring for a loved one with advanced Parkinson’s ― and every stage in between ― everyone’s care partner journey brings its own set of questions, feelings and challenges.

If you or a loved one has Parkinson’s disease (PD), it is important to understand what support is available to you. Most people are aware of hospice as a resource for late-stage Parkinson’s and palliative care as an option for additional support even at the point of diagnosis. The tips below will inform you about palliative care and hospice and help you advocate for yourself or your loved one when you consider these resources.

Have you wondered if your or your loved one’s Parkinson’s disease (PD) diagnosis can be linked to genetics? How can knowing if you have a genetic tie to Parkinson’s help you manage your disease?

This year, more than ever, care partners deserve recognition. From becoming a quarantine expert with their loved one with Parkinson’s disease (PD), to becoming a telemedicine appointment pro, to navigating natural disasters ― 2020 has given us some new and unpredictable experiences.

UPDATE: Due to the evolving situation with the COVID-19, the majority of our events are now virtual. Click here to view the current status of all events.

Watch our live Q&A with our National Medical Director, Dr. Michael S. Okun, about coronavirus, Parkinson's disease and hospitalization.