Educational Events

Staying Active as a Veteran with Parkinson’s

Virtual ( Zoom )
2:30 pm to 4:00 pm EST
FREE
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Exercise and staying active are essential not only for physical health but also for mental and emotional well-being, especially as a veteran living with Parkinson’s disease. This program will address how staying active can positively impact physical symptoms, mood, and overall health. Participants will learn about the benefits of exercise, discover strategies to stay active beyond traditional workouts, and explore meaningful activities that bring joy and purpose.  

Speakers

Hillari Olson, DPT, RYT 200
LSVT BIG®, PWR! Moves® Certified Clinician
Program Coordinator / Physical Therapist
Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders Program
Minneapolis VA Health Care System

Emily Hall, LCSW
Southeast PADRECC Senior Social Worker
Central Virginia VA Healthcare System

Konner Kielman, OTD, OTR/L
LSVT BIG® Certified Clinician
Occupational Therapist
Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders Program
Minneapolis VA Health Care System

There is no charge to attend, but registration is required. This program is open to people with Parkinson's, their family, friends, and the community.

 

The Parkinson's Foundation is proud to partner with U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to improve the health, well-being and quality of life for veterans with PD.

This is a virtual program, taking place live, using the online Zoom platform. Instructions on joining the webinar are provided after registering.

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My PD Story

Image of Tom Dobrinski smiling
People with PD

Tom Dobrinski

When I first mentioned my symptoms during a routine annual physical in December 2020, I expected the usual advice — get more sleep, stretch more, maybe adjust my medication. I had just had knee replacement surgery the year prior on top of having ongoing arthritis and spine issues. It didn’t seem odd to me or my wife Shari that my movements were slower, I had difficulty turning in bed, and I had fewer facial expressions. 

Tom Dobrinski holding walking poles in picture

However, when I brought up these changes with Audrey Tatar, MD, at Northwestern Medicine, she grew somber and quiet. Then she said, “These are typical signs of Parkinson’s.”  

Parkinson’s? I knew that people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) experience tremors, but I wasn’t shaking.  

Dr. Tatar referred me to Danny Bega, MD, at the Northwestern Medicine Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders Center, a Parkinson’s Foundation Center of Excellence. Six weeks later, Dr. Bega confirmed my diagnosis. 

At first, I felt fear of the unknown, but also relief that it wasn’t something worse and that all my symptoms were occurring for a reason. Shari and I knew little about PD, but we were willing to do anything to slow its progression. I started medication, committed to staying active and got involved with the early intervention program at Shirley Ryan Ability Lab.  

Tom Dobrinski riding a bike

Shari and I explored the Parkinson.org, the Parkinson’s Foundation website, and found a wealth of resources, education and support. Together, we found events such as their Moving Day walk, as well as Tai Chi, ping pong, improv and dance classes through Northwestern Medicine. I’ve also found boxing three times a week at Rock Steady Boxing to be very beneficial. 

All these activities have reinforced the importance of both exercise and community. I’ve met many inspiring people I would not have met otherwise, and that camaraderie has been invaluable. 

Tom, wife, and friends taking a selfie on an outdoor walk

Rather than holding me back, PD has pushed me to new experiences and unexpected places. I became an advocate for the Parkinson’s Voice Project, joined conversation groups where people with PD share their experiences, and enrolled in a Shirley Ryan AbilityLab program counting steps and heart rate. I’ve even hiked in Patagonia, Mont Blanc and the Dolomites, all of which were challenging but equally rewarding. 

For anyone newly diagnosed with PD, here is my advice: Don’t go through it alone. Engage with the community, exercise regularly and use the resources available to you. Shari has been my biggest supporter throughout this journey, encouraging me when I’ve needed it most.  

Tom Dobrinski and wife on a hike

For care partners of individuals newly diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, Shari offers her advice: “Be a part of your partner’s journey. Remember that Parkinson's affects you as well and becomes a significant part of your life as a care partner. Encourage your partner to take charge of their health, stay informed about the disease, and seek support from others.” 

As the saying goes, “When you’ve met one person with Parkinson’s, you’ve met one person with Parkinson’s.” I wasn’t a textbook case, but each person’s experience with PD is unique; the right support and resources can make all the difference. 

Learn more about the Northwestern Medicine Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders Center.  

Find the Parkinson’s exercise class that works for you! For virtual options, explore our Fitness Friday videos. For in-person classes, visit your local chapter’s webpage or call our Helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636). 

Podcasts

Episode 178: Maintaining Independence When Living Alone with Parkinson’s

Living alone with Parkinson’s disease (PD) presents daily challenges, but it also offers certain benefits, such as the independence to control your own schedule. Whether you choose to live alone, or find that nearby friends and family aren’t as close as you would like, there are resources to support you.  

Living alone can also bring physical and emotional hurdles. You may experience feelings of isolation or loneliness, and everyday tasks like cooking and cleaning can become more difficult while juggling PD symptoms. There are strategies that can help you feel more secured and empowered to overcome these challenges. For example, you might consider using a food delivery service on days when preparing meals feels overwhelming, or reaching out to a neighbor for help with shoveling snow. It’s important to prioritize self-care and recognize when it’s time to ask for help.  

In this episode, we speak with Susan Englander and Fran Chernowsky, two individuals living alone with Parkinson’s who are also members of the Parkinson’s Foundation PD Solo group. They share their experiences with the initial challenges of receiving a PD diagnosis, the importance of staying open and flexible to new things, and the value of finding a supportive community.   

Released: April 22, 2025 

Speakers

Raise Awareness

Caring for the Mind: 10 Parkinson’s Mental Wellness Resources

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Parkinson’s disease (PD) can feel overwhelming. Managing symptoms, navigating physical and mental changes and making lifestyle adjustments can take an emotional toll. As you find your path forward, it’s essential to also take care for your mental health.  

When it comes to mental health:

  • Nearly 50% of all people with Parkinson's will experience depression at some point
  • 40% will experience anxiety
  • Nearly 50% of people with PD can also experience apathy (a loss of interest)

These changes can be related to PD, due to a loss of dopamine and other chemical messengers the body makes to keep the brain healthy.  Whether you live with PD or you are a care partner to someone who does, it can be challenging to know where to begin.

Explore our top resources that address mental wellness and PD: 

1. Create space for all your emotions, even those of grief and loss. 

Grief is a natural part of the Parkinson’s journey, especially following a diagnosis. Holding onto grief impacts your mind and body. Read 6 Questions for Exploring Your Parkinson’s-Related Grief to find healthy ways to process feelings of loss. 

2. Read Mood: A Mind Guide to Parkinson's Disease. 

PD-related mood changes are commonly undertreated. There are screening tools and therapies available. Learn what to watch for and how to discuss treatment options with your doctor.  

3. Cultivate calm with Mindfulness Mondays guided relaxations. 

Stress can worsen PD symptoms. Mindfulness, focusing on one thing at a time and blocking out distractions, promotes resiliency and reduces stress. 

4. Learn about PD and cognition, the mental skills we use to focus, solve problems, plan, follow instructions and more.  

Thinking changes can influence mental health. Addressing Thinking Changes in Parkinson's identifies coping strategies and therapies for cognitive change. 

5. Exercise. Try our free, on-demand Fitness Friday workouts.  

Exercise is medicine. Regular exercise can ease depression, anxiety and other non-movement symptoms of PD, as well as improve mobility and flexibility. Aim for at least 2.5 hours a week.  

6. Build your mental health team. 

Mental health support helps you prioritize your emotional well-being and work through your feelings. To know what to look for in a mental health counselor, read 7 Helpful Tips for Finding Your Ideal Mental Health Counselor. 

7. Try complementary therapies.

Non-drug treatments — including massage, acupuncture, red light therapy and CBD — can be used to support well-being alongside traditional PD treatments. Learn more with our article: Exploring Complementary Therapies and Functional Medicine in Parkinson's Care.

8. Socialize. Connect with your PD community online or in person. 

Loneliness affects physical and mental health. Find your nearest Moving Day, A Walk for Parkinson’s to meet others living with PD or find an exercise or wellness class near you through the Parkinson's Foundation Chapter network. 

9. Have the difficult conversation. You are not alone. 

People with Parkinson’s are at an increased risk of suicide. If you are struggling with thoughts of despair, opening up to someone you trust is the first step toward getting the help you need. How to Openly Discuss Suicide and Parkinson’s can help you talk about difficult feelings. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24 hours a day at 1-800-273-8255. 

It's also never too early or late to bring up topics many consider taboo, from impulse control disorders to caregiver burnout. To learn more about them and how to address them, read our article Taboo Parkinson's Topics and How to Address Them. 

10. Get inspired. Learn how others are navigating life with Parkinson’s. 

My PD Story is a place for where people share how they are acknowledging and overcoming the challenges of living with PD. Learn what keeps others hopeful and consider sharing your own story.  

Learn More 

We’re here for you. Contact our Helpline more information on mental health, referrals to professionals and resources in your area. Call 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) or email Helpline@Parkinson.org. 

Educational Events

Learn More. Live Better. Parkinson's Symposium

Virtual ( Zoom )
9:00 am to 1:30 pm EST
FREE
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Living with Parkinson’s can be challenging, but there are many things you can do to maintain and improve your quality of life.  This program will provide you with information to help you find the balance between a proactive approach and wondering what lies ahead. 

Keynote Speaker

Michael S. Okun, MD
Adelaide Lackner Professor of Neurology
Executive Director, Normal Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases

Expert Speakers

Irene Malaty, MD, FAAN
Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases -
University of Florida Movement Disorders

Ihtsham ul Haq, MD, FAAN
Professor of Neurology and Chief of Movement Disorders Divisions
University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine
A Parkinson's Foundation Center of Excellence 

Robert Hauser, MD, MBA
Director, Parkinson's Disease & Movement
University of South Florida
A Parkinson's Foundation Center of Excellence

Panelist

Ramón Rodríguez, MD, FAAN
Medical Director, Neurology One

Event Volunteers Needed! Service hours and lunch are provided. To sign up and learn more, visit: Volunteer sign-up here

Stay tuned for more information!

For in-person attendees: Check-in and Resource Fair start at 9 a.m. Lunch will be served. Drop-off areas are located in front of Faith Hall. Handicap and general parking is available in the Pink Lot.

For virtual attendees via Zoom: The live stream starts at 10 a.m.

There is no charge to attend, but registration is required since lunch will be served. This program is open to people with Parkinson's, their family, friends and the community.

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Videos & Webinars

Expert Briefing: The Latest Advances in Parkinson’s Research and Treatment

April 9, 2025

Join us for an in-depth look at the latest advancements in Parkinson’s disease research and the emerging treatments. This webinar will cover the current medication pipeline, highlighting new therapies and their potential impact on symptom management. Participants will also learn how to identify and participate in relevant clinical studies, staying informed on the cutting-edge research that is shaping the future of Parkinson’s care.

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Additional Resources

Presenter

Kevin McFarthing, PhD
Parkinson's Research Advocate, Oxford, UK

Fact Sheets

Steps to Prepare for a Parkinson’s Appointment

Start preparing at least two weeks before your next Parkinson's disease (PD) appointment so you’re ready to talk about what matters most to you.

Use this worksheet to choose your top three appointment topics. Consider working on it with someone you trust for another point of view.

Part 1: Think About How Parkinson’s Affects Your Life

Keep notes on PD concerns between appointments. Use a journal, send yourself an email, record a voice memo or use an app.

Consider each of these areas:

  • Physical health
  • Mental health
  • Family & friends
  • Work
  • Everyday activities, chores
  • Activities you enjoy, hobbies

Step 1) Symptoms: Reflect on what’s new or different.

  • Which symptoms bother you most? How do they impact your daily life?
  • What makes symptoms worse or better?
  • Did changes made at your last appointment help with symptoms (medications, therapy, diet)?
  • Have your family or friends noticed any changes?

Step 2) Goals: Consider what matters most to you.

  • What are you focused on right now (work, family, hobbies, travel)?
  • What activities do you want to keep doing?
  • Do symptoms make it hard to do the things you enjoy?

Step 3) Concerns: Think about your biggest questions or worries.

  • Are you worried about medications (not lasting as long, costs, side effects)?
  • How is Parkinson’s affecting your relationships?
  • Do you need help finding Parkinson’s resources and support?

Part 2: Decide What is Most Important for this Appointment

Step 4) Choose your top 3 topics for the appointment.

Now that you’ve reflected, think about what's affecting your daily life and needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Finish this sentence:

“If I can only discuss three things with my healthcare team during this visit, the most important are ______________.”

Step 5) Write down your top 3 topics.

Write topics in priority order and bring the list to share at the start of your next appointment. Be as specific as you can. For symptoms, include how often you have them and at what time of day they happen. Consider bringing a video of movement symptoms to show your healthcare team.

Important Reminders

  • Share any symptom that bothers you, even if you’re not sure it’s related to PD.
  • Bring a list of all your medications to your visits, including non-PD medications. Include the time you take them and the amount.
  • If possible, take someone you trust with you to appointments.
  • Learn about PD symptoms and treatments to help you communicate with your care team.

Need Help?

Contact the Parkinson’s Foundation Helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO (473-4636) or Helpline@Parkinson.org. Our Helpline team can:

  • Help you prepare before an appointment.
  • Answer PD questions you didn’t address during appointments.
  • Locate PD specialists, support groups and exercise classes near you.
Educational Events

Cambios en el estado de ánimo y el pensamiento en la EP

Virtual ( Zoom )
1:00 pm to 2:00 pm EST
Gratis
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En este webinar, exploraremos los cambios en el estado de ánimo y el pensamiento asociados con la enfermedad de Parkinson. Analizaremos cómo éstos afectan la vida diaria, las interacciones sociales y el bienestar emocional, tanto de las personas con Parkinson como de sus aliados en el cuidado. Además, discutiremos estrategias para afrontar estos cambios y aumentar la motivación.

Presentadora

Ileana Pacheco- Colón, PhD
Neuropsicóloga clínica
Licenciada en psicología
Neuropsychology Associates of Miami

¿En busca de algo más? Podrá encontrar todos nuestros videos de EP Salud en Casa en YouTube.

Más información:

Todos los eventos de “EP Salud en Casa" – Parkinson.org/EPSalud.

Una lista de nuestros recursos en español – Parkinson.org/Recursos

Línea de Ayuda – 1-800-473-4636, opción 3 para español.

EP Salud En Casa es presentado por Light of Day Foundation, cuya generosidad ha hecho posible esta programación.

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Educational Events

Impacto de la EP en el habla y la deglución

Virtual ( Zoom )
1:00 pm to 2:00 pm EST
Gratis
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En este webinar, exploraremos el impacto de la enfermedad de Parkinson (EP) en el habla y la deglución, analizando qué sucede en la garganta que dificulta estas funciones. Además, presentaremos estrategias y ejercicios prácticos para mejorar la comunicación y la seguridad al tragar, promoviendo una mejor calidad de vida.

Presentadora

Ana Molano MS, CCC-SLP 
Especialista clínica en voz y deglución
Voice Rehab 

¿En busca de algo más? Podrá encontrar todos nuestros videos de EP Salud en Casa en YouTube.

Más información:

Todos los eventos de “EP Salud en Casa" – Parkinson.org/EPSalud.

Una lista de nuestros recursos en español – Parkinson.org/Recursos

Línea de Ayuda – 1-800-473-4636, opción 3 para español.

EP Salud En Casa es presentado por Light of Day Foundation, cuya generosidad ha hecho posible esta programación.

Light of Day

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Educational Events

Cómo las perspectivas hispanas están transformando el cuidado de la salud

Virtual ( Zoom )
1:00 pm to 2:00 pm EST
Gratis
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Este webinar ofrecerá una visión general sobre los diferentes tipos de investigación clínica, incluyendo la observacional y la intervencional. Exploraremos investigaciones psicosociales enfocadas en mejorar la comunicación en personas con la enfermedad de Parkinson y cómo las opiniones de los participantes son esenciales para la creación de grupos de apoyo culturalmente inclusivos. Se destacarán las perspectivas de los participantes y se discutirán formas de involucrarse en estudios de investigación para contribuir al avance del cuidado de Parkinson.

Presentadora

Gemma Moya-Galé, PhD, CCC-SLP  
Profesora adjunta, Programa en Ciencias y Trastornos de la Comunicación 
Directora del Laboratorio Comunicación, Tecnología y Diversidad Lingüística 
Directora, Speech for PD
Teachers College, Columbia University (un Centro de Excelencia de la Parkinson's Foundation)
 

¿En busca de algo más? Podrá encontrar todos nuestros videos de EP Salud en Casa en YouTube.

Más información:

Todos los eventos de “EP Salud en Casa" – Parkinson.org/EPSalud.

Una lista de nuestros recursos en español – Parkinson.org/Recursos

Línea de Ayuda – 1-800-473-4636, opción 3 para español.

EP Salud En Casa es presentado por Light of Day Foundation, cuya generosidad ha hecho posible esta programación.

Light of Day

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