National Family Caregivers Month
In November, the Parkinson’s Foundation joins organizations across the country to honor care partners for National Family Caregivers Month.
This year, our theme is “Real Care. Anywhere.”, which highlights the diverse experiences of caregiving. Whether someone is sharing a home with someone who has Parkinson’s disease (PD), providing care from a distance or managing PD alone, care partners shape what real, supportive care looks like.
Three Ways to Care
Everyday Care Partner
Everyday care partners live with someone who has PD and offer hands-on, daily support. From managing medications and attending appointments to offering emotional support and encouragement, everyday care partners are there day-in and day-out to help navigate the challenges of PD.
Checklist: Everyday Care Partner
✔ Learn about Parkinson’s. You will be better able to provide support if you have a basic understanding of the disease.
✔ Prepare for and attend medical appointments. Track symptom changes and bring any questions you have for healthcare providers.
✔ Help manage daily routines and medications.
✔ Initiate difficult but necessary conversations about changing needs and care.
✔ Prioritize your own well-being by making time for your hobbies, self-care and rest.
✔ Connect with your local Parkinson’s Foundation chapter to learn more about events, support groups and more in your area.
✔ Sign up to receive emails and get access to the latest Parkinson’s news.
Caring From Afar
For some, caregiving means supporting a loved one with Parkinson’s from a distance. These care partners may not live with or near the person they care for, but their role is no less important. Whether they’re managing logistics, coordinating care or offering emotional support through phone calls or video chats, they play a crucial part in making sure their loved one feels supported, even when they can't be there in person.
Checklist: Caring From Afar
✔ Learn about Parkinson’s. You will be better able to provide support if you have a basic understanding of PD.
✔ If you are the primary care partner, consider hiring a geriatric care manager.
✔ If you are the secondary care partner, let the primary care partner know that you are there for them and do what you can to help them prevent caregiver burnout.
✔ Stay connected through weekly phone or video check-ins.
✔ Help manage virtual tasks like prescription refills or telehealth appointments.
✔ Have hard conversations about finances, medical decisions and more early on.
✔ Get yourself and your loved one connected with a local Parkinson’s Foundation chapter to learn more about events, support groups and more in both of your areas.
✔ Sign up to receive emails and get access to the latest Parkinson’s news.
See how Ripley navigates life as a long-distance care partner.
Solo Care Partner
Many people with Parkinson’s care for themselves, managing appointments, medications and wellness routines alone. This often-overlooked group takes on the dual role of someone living with Parkinson’s and primary care partner, which is a responsibility that requires strength, self-advocacy and resilience.
Checklist: Solo Care Partner
✔ Create a routine. Establish a daily schedule to help manage tasks and reduce stress.
✔ Keep track of medications and PD symptoms. Using apps and tools to set reminders, manage health information or access telehealth services are great ways to stay organized and on top of things.
✔ Build a reliable healthcare team you trust.
✔ Ask for help when you need it. Reach out to friends, family or professional services for support. Giving yourself breaks can make a big difference.
✔ Connect with your local Parkinson’s Foundation chapter to learn more about events, support groups and more in your area. Our PD Solo Network is a great resource for people with Parkinson’s who live alone.
✔ Prioritize self-care by making time for your physical and mental health.
✔ Sign up to receive emails and get access to the latest Parkinson’s news.
Real Care Starts Here
No matter what caregiving looks like for you, the Parkinson’s Foundation is here to help. Explore tips, connect with other care partners and discover how to care for yourself along the way.
Help Spread the Word
Care partners play an essential role in the lives of many people with Parkinson’s.
Help us honor and support the caregivers in our community. Share this campaign on social media. Use our social media tools with ready-to-post content. Inspire others by sharing your care partner story.