Every year, Parkinson’s Foundation Helpline specialists receive calls from people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and their loved ones looking for advice when it comes to navigating the holidays. So, we put our specialists’ top recommendations in this article.  

From not knowing how to explain PD to grandchildren, to feeling insecure that family will notice worsening symptoms and the exhaustion that can accompany travel, the holidays can be overwhelming. By thinking ahead about possible stressors, this article is designed to help you plan and prepare to enjoy your holiday season while best managing PD symptoms.  

1. Preparing to see family you haven’t seen in a while.  

The holidays can be a time when extended family gets together. What if your symptoms have changed since the last time you saw these family members?  

Before you see family consider providing them a primer to Parkinson’s — sending them a link in the family chat or email to our What is Parkinson’s page. Early on in your holiday get-together, consider speaking about Parkinson’s for a few minutes to help them understand how you are doing, establishing expectations and setting limits on what works for you.  

It can be helpful to come up with a few short sentence scripts prior to these meetings. That way you can practice what you want to say and get the most important information across. An example could be, “Since last seeing you my Parkinson’s symptoms have picked up. My hand shakes more and I walk a little slower. Taking my medicine on time helps me feel my best. Unless I ask for extra help, please treat me as you would anyone else.” 

Articles to share with family members: 10 Ways to Support a Loved One with Parkinson’s, What is Parkinson’s

2. Managing Parkinson’s medications when traveling. 

What should you know about traveling with Parkinson’s medications?  

• Carry all medications in their original bottles, with the name of the drug and your doctor’s name on the label. 

• Continue to take medications on time, every time, even if changing time zones 

• Bring a copy of your prescriptions (generic and non-generic names) and medication regimen, including your physician’s name and contact information. This printable medication schedule can help. 

• Keep all your medications, for your entire trip, with you in your carry-on bag; include snacks, water or juice to take with medications.  

• If possible, pack extra medication in case you are delayed. 

• Set timers to help you remember to take your medication. 

Consider bringing or printing a Hospital Safety Guide with you when traveling. If you do not have one, order or download the guide and its printable components online in the planning stage of your trip. 

Learn More: Episode 136: Traveling with Parkinson’s Disease 

3. Parkinson’s Travel Tips 

How can you make traveling with Parkinson’s easier? Whether you’re driving, flying or taking that dream cruise this holiday season, we’ve gathered helpful tips in our Traveling with Parkinson’s below. Read this refresher to help you prepare for all aspects of your upcoming trip. 

General travel tips:  

• Plan to rest the day before your trip and the day you arrive. 

• Add a name label to assistive equipment, such as a walker, cane or walking stick, before packing. 

• Give yourself extra time for everything. 

• Days before a flight, request wheelchair or electric cart service within terminals if necessary. Your bags will be handled too. 

• For cruises and theme parks, call ahead to rent assistive devices, such as a scooter.  

• For hotels, call ahead to request an accessible room, or a room near the elevator.  

• Don’t be afraid to ask for help. 

Stick to your routine. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the holidays but try to keep to your daily routine. Follow your usual medication times, mealtimes, exercise routine and sleep schedule.  

Learn More: Traveling with Parkinson's 

4. Talking to children and grandchildren about Parkinson’s. 

Drawing on the experiences of many PD families, children and grandchildren can have a wide-swinging variety feelings about their parent or grandparent having Parkinson’s. The information you choose to share will likely change as they mature and are able to understand more aspects of Parkinson’s.  

The good news is that children often adjust well to a loved one’s diagnosis of PD. Giving children a better understanding of Parkinson's can lessen their fear and anxiety about the disease. When you see children at a family gathering, consider: 

• Talking to them for a few minutes, providing them with general information about Parkinson’s. For instance, you can share that Parkinson’s is a disease that makes it harder for your body to move, and they notice your symptoms. Share what you do to manage them. 

• Using language that is understandable and concrete to your child. 

• Finding a way to allow the child to help and be involved. For instance, they can get you water, help you exercise your brain by playing a game or go on a walk with you.  

Learn More: Parkinson's Q&A: How do I talk to my children about Parkinson's? 

5. Protect your mental health — and move your body.  

Depression and anxiety can be symptoms of Parkinson’s. Prioritize and protect your mental health when traveling. That means taking time for yourself. Rest, read, take your grandchild to the movies, visit a local coffee shop — whatever helps you wind down.  

It’s not easy to exercise when traveling but try to stick to your exercise routine as best as possible. Exercise is essential to managing Parkinson’s symptoms and mental health. Keep moving during the holidays. Whether it’s a short walk after a meal or asking your favorite family member to join you for a Fitness Friday on-demand virtual exercise class, staying active can help ease stiffness and improve your mood.  

Exercise and movement can be great for the whole family especially during the holidays! Consider including your family in your exercise routine. Ask your grandkids to go on a walk with you, sign the family up for a boxing class or schedule a time for a virtual exercise class with all family members that are interested. 

Learn More: Mindfulness Mondays guided meditation videos and Fitness Friday exercise videos

6. Setting up better two-way communication.  

About 75% of people with Parkinson’s experience changes in speech and voice. People with Parkinson’s might struggle in a big group discussion, with following along, being heard or needing extra time to answer.  

Tips to help you communicate with your family:  

• Drink plenty of water or other liquids each day (non-caffeine and non-alcoholic). 

• Do not strain your voice by shouting over loud noise when you talk. 

• Rest your voice when it is tired. Like other muscles in your body, the muscles controlling your speech need a break sometimes. 

• Reduce throat clearing or coughing. 

Tips for family and friends:  

• Have important or more challenging conversations when the person with PD is well-rested and at their ‘best’ time of day. 

• Minimize talking ‘for’ the person with PD or filling in their responses unless they ask you to do so. 

• Reduce background noise when having a conversation. Turn off the radio and TV and shut doors to noisy areas. 

• Be aware that people with PD may not accurately express their emotions through facial expressions because of facial masking. 

• Be patient. Allow ample time for the person with PD to communicate. 

Additional resources: Alleviating Voice Challenges with PD and What Can I Do to Improve My Speech and Communication? 

7. Ask for help when you need it.  

Finally, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Whether it’s asking a family member to go on a pharmacy run for you, letting someone make your tea or calling a friend from your support group to simply confide in someone about how you’re feeling — your support system is there to help lighten the load.  

Learn More: Call the Parkinson's Foundation Helpline 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) and explore our Resources and Support page. 

¿No sabe qué regalar a su ser querido con la enfermedad de Parkinson (EP) para las próximas fiestas o un cumpleaños? El Parkinson es una enfermedad que progresa con el tiempo y conlleva una infinidad de síntomas y, a veces, un pequeño regalo puede ayudar a facilitar un poco la vida.  

Los siguientes productos no están respaldados por la Parkinson’s Foundation. 

1. Para quien quiere moverse 

Las investigaciones demuestran que el ejercicio habitual puede ayudar a aliviar los síntomas de la EP. Ayude a motivar a su ser querido a hacer ejercicio. Las pesas ligeras pueden llevar el gimnasio a su sala, mientras que un ejercitador de pedal de bicicleta portátil puede ayudar a activar la circulación, desde cualquier silla. Para entrenamientos a la carta, explora nuestros videos de Viernes de Ejercicio. 

2. Para quien necesita simplificar su cuidado personal 

Mantener la salud dental es importante para las personas con Parkinson, ya que los síntomas pueden complicar el cuidado dental. Un cepillo eléctrico o un dispensador de pasta de dientes ayudan en estas tareas dentales diarias. Simplifique otras tareas de cuidado personal con una afeitadora eléctrica para hombres y mujeres. 

3. Para quien ama ver a sus seres queridos 

¡Ver a su ser querido en persona puede ser el mejor de todos los regalos! Entre visita y visita, ayúdele a tener las manos libres con un dispositivo inteligente para videollamadas, como el Amazon Echo Show. Estos dispositivos suelen tener la ventaja añadida de contar con un calendario y alertas activados por voz. Ayude a su ser querido a configurar otras funciones inteligentes, como conectarlo a lámparas y electrodomésticos mediante enchufes inteligentes. 

4. Para quien necesita ayuda para probar cosas nuevas 

Un 40% de las personas con la EP utiliza terapias complementarias para obtener alivio de los síntomas. Considere regalar una experiencia que su ser querido pueda probar cerca, como una clase de Tai Chi o yoga, una sesión de acupuntura o un masaje. 

5. Para los amantes de la buena comida 

Es habitual que las personas con la EP experimenten cambios de peso: algunas pierden peso, mientras que otras aumentan. Un regalo infalible para cualquier foodie puede ser programar una deliciosa entrega de comida de un restaurante local o comprarle sus comestibles para la semana utilizando un servicio de entrega como Instacart o AmazonFresh. 

6. Para quien necesita cafeína e hidratación 

Regale el increíblemente popular vaso Stanley (resistente a roturas) o ayúdele a mejorar sus accesorios para el café . Si lo suyo es el té, opte por una tetera eléctrica con función de apagado automático. Las investigaciones demuestran que tomar cafeína con moderación puede ayudar con los síntomas motores de la EP. 

7. Para quien tiene dolores corporales 

Este masajeador de piernas con control remoto aportará relajación a su ser querido con la EP. Los masajeadores manuales y las almohadillas térmicas pueden ayudar a aliviar la rigidez muscular y el dolor que suelen asociarse a la EP. 

8. Para quien tiene estilo 

A veces, el Parkinson puede interferir en las actividades de la vida diaria, como vestirse. El calzado a la moda sin cordones puede simplificar el desafío de usar zapatos resistentes con agarre para hombres o mujeres con la EP. Un calzador de mango largo también puede ayudar. 

9. Para quien necesita un sueño de calidad 

La aromaterapia en forma de vaporizadores de ducha y bombas de baño puede ayudar a fomentar la relajación antes de acostarse. Las sábanas de seda y los pijamas de satén no sólo son cómodos, sino que tienen la ventaja añadida de ayudar a deslizarse para salir de la cama con más facilidad. 

10. Para quien quiere comer más sano 

Las investigaciones demuestran que la dieta mediterránea puede reducir el riesgo de deterioro cognitivo en todas las personas. Un libro de cocina de la dieta mediterránea o un bloc magnético para planificar las comidas pueden ayudar a su ser querido a organizarse y a probar nuevas recetas. Tenga en cuenta que la hora de comer también puede ser diferente. Este juego de cubiertos con peso puede ayudar. Aprenda más acerca de la EP y la nutrición. 

11. Para el aficionado a la televisión 

Haga que ver la televisión y comer bocadillos sea más cómodo con una bandeja de TV ajustable. Para el que lo ha visto todo, regale una suscripción mensual a un servicio de streaming que su ser querido aún no haya probado. 

12. Para quien ama revivir los recuerdos 

Un álbum de fotos personalizado tiene posibilidades ilimitadas y puede ser un gran tema de conversación. Elige un tema con valor sentimental: vacaciones familiares pasadas, una página dedicada a cada persona de la familia, lugares favoritos. Ver fotos del pasado puede ayudar con la memoria. 

13. Para el maestro de la palabra 

Escribir a mano puede resultar más difícil conforme avanza la EP. Un bolígrafo fácil de agarrar puede ayudar, mientras que un diario de gratitud puede ayudarle a llevar un registro de todas las cosas que le producen alegría. 

14. Para el amante de la naturaleza 

Si su ser querido no puede esperar a las actividades de primavera o verano, un sombrero nuevo puede ayudarle a protegerse del sol. Los bastones de trekking (o bastones para caminar) también pueden ayudarle a disfrutar de los paseos y las excursiones al aire libre. 

15. Para quien necesita darse un gusto

El autocuidado es esencial para las personas con Parkinson y sus aliados en el cuidado. Una lámpara de fototerapia puede ayudar a aliviar o prevenir la depresión estacional, mientras que un juego de lociones de spa puede ayudar a tratar los cambios en la piel, otro síntoma de la EP. Busque productos que traten la piel que pica, grasosa, seca e inflamada, todos ellos síntomas de la EP. 

16. Para quien disfruta de ejercitar el cerebro 

Los libros de rompecabezas pueden ayudar a dar variedad al día y promover la estimulación mental. La lectura de libros puede ayudar a las personas con la EP a mantener la claridad mental. 

17. Para quien ama contar historias 

Ayude a su ser querido a contar su historia. Cada semana, Storyworth books le envía a usted (o a su ser querido) una pregunta. Al final del año, las respuestas se encuadernan en un libro. Para compartir la experiencia, programe una llamada semanal con su ser querido y respondan juntos a la pregunta. 

18. Para los amantes de la cocina y la repostería 

Simplifique las tareas de la cocina con accesorios que pueden ahorrarle tiempo. Explore tablas de cortar adaptables, un dispensador de masa, una picadora de verduras o un abridor de frascos eléctrico. 

19. Para quien siempre está leyendo 

Los audiolibros permiten tener las manos libres y disfrutar de la lectura durante los paseos o los viajes largos en auto. Regale una suscripción a Audible de uno a 12 meses. Igualmente, los lectores de libros electrónicos, como Kindle, también pueden facilitar un poco la lectura a las personas con Parkinson. Ayude a configurar el Kindle con texto grande y otros ajustes personalizados. 

20. Para quien lo tiene todo 

Nunca subestime el regalo de su compañía. Invite a su ser querido al cine, al parque o simplemente ayúdele en casa. ¿Busca algo que hacer juntos? Explore experiencias locales, como museos o una clase de ejercicios para la EP. Encuentre su Chapter de la Parkinson’s Foundation más cercano para conocer las clases que se imparten en su localidad. 

¿Aún no sabe qué regalar a su ser querido? Considere hacer un donativo a la Parkinson’s Foundation en su nombre. Como parte de su donativo, puede enviar una eCard o imprimir una tarjeta. 

November is National Family Caregivers Month, a time to honor those who care for their loved ones. This year, the Parkinson’s Foundation is highlighting the importance of caregiver well-being and acknowledging the challenges of burnout. Addressing caregiver burnout is essential, as it often affects both the caregiver's health and the quality of care provided. 

Caregivers play a crucial role in the lives of people with Parkinson's disease (PD), providing invaluable support and assistance that enhances their quality of life. Life does not stop with a PD diagnosis — but PD and its symptoms change over time, as does the role of a care partner.  

Being a care partner can be rewarding, but the stress and change of caring for someone can be emotionally, mentally and physically draining. Recognizing caregiver burnout and its signs is essential for maintaining your well-being and providing the best possible care for your loved one. 

What is caregiver burnout? 

Caregiver burnout is a state of physical, emotional and mental exhaustion that may include a change in attitude, from positive and caring to negative and unconcerned. Burnout can occur when caregivers don't get the help they need, or if they try to do more than they are able, physically or financially. 

Caregiver burnout symptoms can include: 

• Fatigue 

• Irritability, frustration or anger 

• Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness 

• Changes in sleep patterns 

• Withdrawal from social activities 

Why Addressing Caregiving Burnout is Important 

Addressing caregiver burnout helps preserve the caregiver's well-being, ensures quality care for loved ones and fosters a supportive caregiving environment overall. 

You cannot pour from an empty cup. It’s important to give yourself time to rest and fill up. As a care partner, your well-being is foundational to sustaining compassionate care and providing support to your loved one.  

If you’re experiencing symptoms of caregiver burnout or are aiming to prevent it, here are eight tips that can help: 

Tip 1: Make Time for Yourself 

Carve out moments for self-care and relaxation. Taking breaks allows you to recharge mentally and emotionally, reducing the risk of burnout.  

Balance is key. While caring for others is important, neglecting your own needs can lead to exhaustion. Whether it's a short walk, reading a book or pursuing a hobby, these moments of respite are crucial for maintaining your well-being and sustaining your ability to provide support to your loved one over the long term. 

Tip 2: Set Realistic Expectations 

Be realistic about what you can handle. Prioritize tasks and focus on what's most important. Understand your capabilities and limitations and ask for help when you need it. 

Tip 3: Celebrate Small Victories 

Celebrate small victories and recognize the progress you’ve made in your caregiving journey. These milestones, whether big or small, serve as reminders of your dedication and the positive impact of your efforts on your loved one's well-being. 

Tip 4: Delegate and Accept Help 

Even if you are the sole care partner for your loved one, don’t be afraid to ask for outside help. Whether that be family, neighbors, friends or professionals, know that you don’t have to do everything on your own. Asking a family member to sit and watch TV with your loved one while you go to the movies can be a welcome mini break.  

There are also many communities and online resources for care partners that offer support, information and practical advice to navigate the challenges of caregiving. 

Tip 5: Seek Emotional Support 

If you're unsure about what to expect or how to manage certain aspects of caregiving, don't hesitate to seek advice from healthcare professionals, support groups or experienced caregivers. They can provide valuable insights and practical tips based on their expertise. 

Connecting with others who understand your situation can be an effective way to reduce feelings of isolation and self-doubt as a caregiver. 

Going to therapy can also be a huge help in managing stress, providing a safe space to express your emotions, gaining perspective on challenges and developing coping strategies. 

Tip 6: Exercise Regularly and Get Enough Sleep 

While easier said than done for many, regular exercise has been linked to lower depression and stress levels. Find something you enjoy — whether it’s a walk in nature, yoga or going to a workout class. Exercise may also help you sleep better at night. 

Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep at night to maintain your physical and emotional health, which is crucial for effectively and sustainably managing the duties of caregiving. 

Tip 7: Stay Organized 

Staying organized can be a simple but effective way to reduce stress levels. Keeping track of appointments, medications and important information can help you avoid feeling overwhelmed. 

As a caregiver, you know some things are out of your control. Control what you can and try to stay flexible, keeping in mind some days (or hours) are better than others when it comes to PD symptoms.  

Tip 8: Incorporate Stress-Relief Techniques into Your Daily Routine 

Incorporating stress-relief techniques into your daily routine can improve your ability to manage burnout. Techniques like deep breathing exercises help calm the mind and reduce physical tension. Meditation offers a chance to practice mindfulness, allowing you to step back from stressors and regain perspective.  

Caregiver burnout can affect anyone helping a loved one with Parkinson's. Incorporating just some of these tips can help you avoid burnout and prioritize your own needs. 

We're here for care partners. For more information:  

• Visit For Care Partners  

• Sign up for free online courses through our Care Partner Program 

• Join PD Conversations: Caregiving to meet other care partners in our online community. Read the ongoing conversation about burnout.  

• Contact our toll-free Helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) or Helpline@Parkinson.org.