We absolutely love Spring. There’s something so magical about the awakening power of Spring after a long and cold winter. One of the things we love most about this time of year is that it allows us to start getting outside again into the warm and sunny weather.

And since we’re always thinking about Parkinson’s disease, and the millions of courageous people around the world who battle its motor and non-motor symptoms every day, we got curious: Does being outside have a particular benefit for people with Parkinson’s?

We did some research, and what we found was fascinating! Here’s what some leading minds in Parkinson’s disease research had to say about the subject.

The Brian Grant Foundation, a Parkinson’s awareness organization created by the former NBA star after his diagnosis in 2008, says being outdoors has tremendous health benefits for people with Parkinson’s.

The site suggests people with Parkinson’s, well, take a hike.

“Depending on the length and intensity of the trail, and the steepness of your incline, you’re in for a powerful cardio workout that can lower your risk of heart disease and improve your blood pressure and blood sugar levels, while filling your lungs with fresh, clean air.”

In addition to being a great workout, the article notes, hiking outdoors can be a soothing way to clear your mind while enjoying nature.

“Adding to the fact that you’re taking in the mesmerizing sounds of wildlife and some of the most scenic views Mother Earth has to offer—be it forests, mountains, deserts, waterfalls, rivers or creeks—hiking nourishes the mind, body and soul in ways no other workout can.”

Spending time outdoors is more than just good advice, however. Scientific studies have shown experiences in nature can help relieve certain symptoms—non-motor and motor alike—among people with Parkinson’s.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recently published some research indicating walking on the uneven surfaces of the great outdoors could help people with Parkinson’s relieve the freezing-of-gait symptom, in which they feel like their feet are stuck or glued to the ground.

The study’s abstract concludes, “our results, if repeated in future studies, may have significance to everyday lives of PD patients, who could get a simpler life by consciously prioritizing stays in natural surroundings.”

Read the entire study here.

The Michael J. Fox foundation, an always reliable source for the latest Parkinson’s disease research and discussion, also had great things to say about being in the outdoors.

In this article, the MJFF explores a study reporting that nature walks are good for our brains.

And here they suggest seven Spring workouts for people with Parkinson’s symptoms.

Finally, we took it straight to the people themselves. We asked some of the biggest Parkinson’s communities on social media to weigh in on the subject, and the answer was clear: Being outdoors makes a big difference.

“For some reason I can walk through the park on trails better than in my house,” Mike F. said. “I do still ‘freeze,’ but not as often or severe! Exercise definitely helps!”

“Gardening really helps me,” Shaun M. said.

Shawn H. added, “the Vitamin D from sunshine and fresh air help alot [sic].”

“My [husband with Parkinson’s] just appreciated getting out and seeing the world because in the last year and a half of his life it happened so little,” said Hillary M., a Parkinson’s caregiver. “Cheered him right up to see trees and flowers, or even the neighbors’ front lawns – I’d take him down the stair lift, out the door, and set him up on a chair on our front steps.”

“Just being outside is a gift,” Mark B. said.

Don’t let this good weather go to waste! Do something good for your body, mind and soul, and spend some quality time outside.

We at PhotoPharmics are passionate about representing the Parkinson’s community in an effort to raise awareness. In a recent survey, PhotoPharmics discovered a large percentage of people are waiting with great eagerness for breakthroughs that will improve the standard of care for people with Parkinson’s.

“We have made a strong effort to become a trusted contributing voice in the Parkinson’s community, and what we’ve found through our informal research is that this is a group that is ready and waiting with great anticipation to see a significant step forward in terms of Parkinson’s disease care,” said Brett Walker, spokesperson for PhotoPharmics.

The survey was shared through the biggest online Parkinson’s disease groups, and collected 108 responses. 66 (or 61%) said they did not expect to see a breakthrough in Parkinson’s disease treatment in their lifetimes, and 42 (39%) said they did.

Walker believes the results of the survey tell two, yet equally positive, stories.

“On the one hand, we believe it’s significant that nearly 40% of respondents are optimistic about breakthroughs coming in their lifetimes,” he said. “And in the other 60% we see a group with some significant unmet needs who is actively engaged, and waiting with eagerness for a major advancement.”

Leading Parkinson’s disease advocacy and research groups like the Michael J. Fox Foundation are followed closely by the Parkinson’s disease community. They regularly publish new Parkinson’s disease findings on their Websites and social media channels. Likewise, groups like the Parkinson’s Foundation, and the International Movement Disorders Society fund and publish important research relating to Parkinson’s disease.

“There are incredible organizations who have made Parkinson’s research their missions. They publish new information almost daily, and that information drives innovation from companies like ours,” Walker said.

The ongoing research surrounding phototherapy, or light therapy, as a treatment for Parkinson’s disease is of particular interest to PhotoPharmics. With a staff that boasts over 30 years’ experience in the field of light therapy, PhotoPharmics is on the vanguard of Parkinson’s disease treatment breakthroughs. Their proprietary technologies and research have been widely used and acquired by major players in the medical field to regulate circadian rhythms for seasonal affective disorder, sleep disorders, anxiety, and depression.

“We aim to make a clinically meaningful difference in patients’ lives by delivering safe and effective treatments,” said Kent Savage, PhotoPharmics CEO. “We are currently extending our research into other neurodegenerative diseases, and Parkinson’s disease specifically.”

PhotoPharmics is currently preparing for a phase-three clinical trial for a medical device they’ve developed specifically to address the non-motor and motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. This device recently received Breakthrough Device Designation by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

According to the FDA’s Website, “the Breakthrough Devices Program is a voluntary program for certain medial devices that provide for more effective treatment or diagnosis of life-threatening or irreversibly debilitating diseases or conditions. The goal of the Breakthrough Devices Program is to provide patients and healthcare providers with timely access to these medical devices by speeding up their development, assessment, and review.”

“Very few device companies receive Breakthrough designation,” Savage said. “Our device is the first specialized phototherapy device to achieve this status.”

“We hope to someday soon offer the major breakthrough so many are looking for,” Walker added. “We’re working on it every day.”

Those interested in learning more about PhotoPharmics, its upcoming clinical trial or its connection to the Parkinson’s community are invited to connect with us at PhotoPharmics.com/connect.

One question sparks hundreds of thoughtful, compassionate responses

AMERICAN FORK, Utah—More than a million people every year are living with Parkinson’s disease in the United States. Over 60,000 are diagnosed every year, and many more are suffering without a formal diagnosis. It’s likely your life or the life of someone you love has been affected by Parkinson’s disease in one way or another.

But life is bigger than one disease, and nobody knows that better than the Parkinson’s community—a network that includes people with Parkinson’s, caregivers, family, friends and other supporters.

Recently this group banded together in big numbers to offer support and encouragement to newly diagnosed people with Parkinson’s. Over 530 people shared their answer to a simple question posed on some of the largest PD communities on Facebook: “What advice or encouragement would you give someone who has just been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease?” The overwhelming feedback demonstrates the compassion and care of a community bound together by a devastating neurological disease.

“Learn exactly how patient you can be, and then learn to double it. At least,” said one Facebook user.
“Seek out positive role models, like [Michael J.] Fox,” said another. “Listen to his books, participate in research so you can feel empowered.”

Opinions and experiences were varied, since the question was posed to the entirety of the Parkinson’s community. Some of it was practical, such as the advice to get an attorney, or seek out the best care possible. Some of the advice was more philosophical, like the advice to “live life to its fullest,” or “enjoy every moment of every day.”

The common thread, however, was the desire to help. The answers came back quickly, and everyone who responded was eager to offer assistance, demonstrating the caring, nurturing, and optimistic nature of this unique community.

“We have learned so much about the Parkinson’s community over the years,” said Brett Walker, PhotoPharmics spokesperson. “One of the best things we’ve learned is the extent to which they support each other and rally around each other. When someone joins this community, they are immediately received into a network of love and support. When someone asks a question or seeks advice, the people respond in a big way.”

The responses were deeply heartfelt and often moving, and show the raw perspective of what it’s like to be ingrained in Parkinson’s disease.

Here are a few more bits of advice from the Parkinson’s community:

“Don’t let PD dictate your life. There will be plenty of time for that later.”

“I say to you, know you have more to offer than PD. Know deep inside there is an energy that ignites your deepest motivations. And stand willingly, no matter how shaky, and be determined to show others that we can’t be placed in a box.”

“Don’t listen to scary stories of what could happen. Everyone has different symptoms and reacts differently to various medications. The updated treatments available now are very good.”

“I would suggest that you find a neurologist that specializes in movement disorders & start physical therapy to remain active. I was lucky to find a PT who specializes in movement disorders & brain injuries. A good PT will give you exercises that you can do at home.”

“Here is what works for me. Exercise, eat healthy, practice yoga, eliminate negative situations and strive for a low stress lifestyle. Get busy living and moving while you can because nobody knows what’s around the next bend. Be kind to yourself and ask for help when you need it.”

“Go on a nice trip.”

“You are not your diagnosis. Stay true to you and stay active. Find a support group for difficult days and know that you are loved and supported by friends and family no matter how bad the day feels.”

“Tell family and friends so they understand.”

“It’s not a death sentence. You’ll just need to make a few adjustments to your daily routine.”

For more research and news from people with Parkinson’s, as well as updates on what PhotoPharmics is doing to introduce breakthrough Parkinson’s treatment technology to the world, follow PhotoPharmics on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and sign up for PhotoPharmics updates at PhotoPharmics.com/connect.

About PhotoPharmics

PhotoPharmics is a privately held, clinical-stage medical device company developing next-generation treatments for treating neurodegenerative diseases. Company founders have 30+ years of research and experience in this field. They previously developed specialized light solutions now widely used to regulate circadian rhythms in seasonal affective disorder, sleep disorders, anxiety, and depression (acquired by Philips-Respironics in 2007).

Drawing from research and recent trials, PhotoPharmics is developing applications of specialized light across several neurodegenerative diseases. The company aims to make a clinically meaningful difference in patients’ lives by delivering safe and effective non-invasive treatments. Investor inquiries are welcomed. Learn more at www.photopharmics.com.

The Holiday season can be the most joyful, wonderful time of the year. It can also be complicated, stressful and depressing. This is true for everyone, but people with Parkinson’s disease have an especially unique perspective on this festive time of year.

Recently we asked a large online Parkinson’s disease community—which includes people with Parkinson’s, caregivers, friends, family and other interested parties—what impact the Holidays had on their disease. The responses provide insightful perspective, and invaluable advice from an amazing, courageous and hopeful group of people.

Tip #1: Express gratitude

Diana A. said she relies on gratitude to navigate the Holiday season. “Honestly for me the holidays are hard,” she said. “Ups and downs, but I am thankful for what I have.”

Kathleen K. agrees. “I choose to downplay holidays anyway,” she said. “The less pomp and pageantry the better, for me. I’d rather live each day being thankful.”

According to Psychology Today, expressing gratitude can improve physical health, open the door to relationships with other people, enhance ability to feel empathy and more. “Whether you choose to write a few sentences in a gratitude journal or simply take a moment to silently acknowledge all that you have, giving thanks can transform your life,” their site says.

Tip #2: Simplify your life

One respondent relies on simplification to ease the stress of the season. “Stress is not good for Parkinson’s and Christmas is usually stressful,” said Susan F. “We changed our Christmas to a quiet day with one or maybe two guests, or if we wanted to do family Christmas we left before it got too bad.”

Studies show that living a simplified life can reduce stress, save money, improve physical health and even help the environment. Check out this article on Happiness.com to learn more.

Susan continued, “2020 is so full of stress that this year I am staying home and watching Christmas movies with eggnog and fruitcake.”

Tip #3: Share time with loved ones

Above all, the most valuable advice given by people with Parkinson’s was to try and surround yourself (even if it’s just virtually) with people you love.

“My husband with Parkinson’s and I will be spending the Holidays alone in our home this year due to Covid,” said Joy K. “We are TOGETHER and that’s what counts.”

“For me the Holidays are both good and not so good,” said Evelyn V. “I love the holidays and still have the desire to do everything I’ve always done but find that I lack the energy to do it all like in the past. But I’ll get done what I can and be content with that. I just remind myself that the season is about love, kindness and sharing and not how much I decorate or bake or entertain.”

Tip #4: Stay busy

Lynn E. chose to see the busyness of the season in a decidedly optimistic light. “I’d say it’s a good thing for me because it forces me to stay busy with various tasks,” he said. “My greatest enemy with PD is the urge to do nothing. So, having motivation to keep moving is a good thing about this time of year. If someone is a family member or caregiver, I would strongly recommend assigning tasks and keeping the person with Parkinson’s engaged.”

The personal development site Lifesorted.com credits keeping busy as an important way to stay focused and calm.

According to the site, “staying busy is a great way to combat negative emotions and stay positive. When our plans are in progress, we feel hopeful and motivated. Often when we’re busy, we don’t have time to dwell on feelings of worry, sadness, loneliness, anger or jealousy, which can be a good thing.”

If you have specific strategies to avoid Holiday-related stress and anxiety, and benefit the Parkinson’s disease community, please share them on the PhotoPharmics Facebook page.

More than 10 million people around the world have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, including one million in the United States. An average of 60,000 are diagnosed with PD every year, and many more are living with the devastating neurological disease without knowing it.

With numbers like these, it’s likely you or someone you love has been impacted by Parkinson’s disease in one way or another. Or perhaps you’ve heard of the disease through the efforts of people like Michael J. Fox, who has dedicated his life to promoting Parkinson’s disease awareness and research.

Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disease which disrupts the signals in the brain. It is most recognized by its motor symptoms—specifically involuntary movements, shaking, stiffness or slowness. But research has shown that Parkinson’s disease also carries with it a bevy of non-motor symptoms, which, though not as noticeable, are just as debilitating. Non-motor symptoms are the traits of the disease that don’t involve movement, and don’t manifest physically.

“Because PD is known as a movement disorder, the non-motor symptoms can often be overlooked,” said Leslie Chambers, President and CEO of the American Parkinson Disease Association, “yet there are several common PD symptoms that do not primarily involve movement. If you, or someone in your life has PD, it is important to be aware of the non-motor symptoms as these can greatly affect quality of life, but if addressed early can often be treated and minimized.”

Read more about what the APDA has to say about Parkinson’s disease non-motor symptoms here.

Living with Non-Motor Symptoms?

Here’s a closer look at the non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease:

• Depression. Some people with Parkinson’s report a rise in depression, which is a sign of chemical changes in the brain due to the disease, and not necessarily a response to outside factors.
• Anxiety. Likewise, levels of anxiety—feelings of helplessness or worry—can increase with the presence of Parkinson’s disease.
• Cognitive changes. People with Parkinson’s can have a hard time paying attention or focusing on future plans. They can also have a hard time remembering things.
• Hallucinations and delusions. A very scary symptom of Parkinson’s, hallucinations and delusions can cause people with Parkinson’s to behave erratically or display paranoia.
• Loss of senses. Since Parkinson’s disease affects the neural connections in the brain, sometimes people with Parkinson’s report loss of taste, smell or even vision in varying degrees.
• Pain. Though related to motor symptoms, pain is considered a non-motor symptom because it is largely unseen. Pain can exist in the joints, head or in the bones of people with Parkinson’s.
• Sleep disorders. Insomnia, restless sleep and other sleep disorders are more unfortunate non-m
  otor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
• Sexual problems. People with Parkinson’s can experience erectile dysfunction and other problems that can disrupt their sexual activity.

Those are just a few of the more common non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. There are more.

It’s important to get a comprehensive view of both the motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease for a few different reasons.

1. Knowing the non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease can help medical professionals and patients diagnose the disease quickly and early, which can help treatment efforts tremendously.
2. A correct understanding of non-motor symptoms can help people with Parkinson’s deal with their disease better and be a little more forgiving.
3. Caregivers, family, and friends will benefit from knowing the non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease by offering the right kind of assistance in the right ways, knowing that the person they love and care for is experiencing some major changes.

Non-motor symptoms are devastating and debilitating, and unfortunately most Parkinson’s disease treatments are focused on motor symptoms. There is a great need in the medical community for solutions and treatments for non-motor symptoms.

Moving Forward

PhotoPharmics is pioneering the use of phototherapy (or light therapy) to treat the non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Our proprietary medical device was given breakthrough designation by the FDA and is entering phase 3 clinical trials this year.

To learn more about what PhotoPharmics is doing to help people with Parkinson’s, visit PhotoPharmics.com or sign up to keep in touch at PhotoPharmics.com/connect.