Recent Announcements

Do you know about the Parkinson`s Foundation Centers of Excellence?

These aren`t just any medical centers – they`re recognized leaders in Parkinson`s care, research, and outreach.

The Parkinson`s Foundation designates specific medical facilities as Centers of Excellence (currently 54 globally) and also recognizes Comprehensive Care Centers, which meet similar standards.

These designations signify a commitment to providing the highest quality, multidisciplinary care for people living with Parkinson`s.

What does this mean for patients?

Centers of Excellence boast specialized teams of experts, including neurologists with movement disorder expertise, physical and occupational therapists, mental health professionals, and other specialists.

They`re up-to-date on the latest treatments, therapies, and research, ensuring patients receive the most advanced and comprehensive care available.

They also meet rigorous standards for clinical research, professional training, community education, and outreach.

This means they`re not only providing excellent care today but also contributing to better treatments tomorrow.

The Parkinson`s Foundation also recognizes other levels of care, like Comprehensive Care Centers and Community Partners in Parkinson`s Care, ensuring access to quality care across a range of settings.

Beyond the Parkinson`s Foundation, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) supports research-focused Centers of Excellence, known as Udall Centers, dedicated to advancing our understanding of Parkinson`s disease.

These centers use a team-based approach to explore the causes of Parkinson`s and develop new treatments.
They also serve as valuable resources for the Parkinson`s community.

So, if you`re looking for specialized Parkinson`s care, explore the Centers of Excellence and other designated facilities near you.

#centerofexcellence #parkinsonsfoundation #ninds #udallcenters #healthcare #LightForPD #parkinsonsdisease #parkinsons #parkinsonsawareness #parkinsondisease #parkinsonsdiseaseawareness #parkinsonawareness #caregiver #goodnews ...

Strengthen Your Parkinson’s Care Team: Add a Secondary Partner

Caring for someone with Parkinson’s is a shared journey, and no one should do it alone.

While primary care partners—often a spouse or close family member—take on most of the daily responsibilities, adding a secondary care partner can provide much-needed relief and support.

🔹 What is a Secondary Care Partner?

A secondary care partner is someone who steps in to assist both the person with Parkinson’s and the primary caregiver.

This could be a friend, relative, or hired caregiver who provides occasional help, offering respite and balance to those giving care full-time.

🔹 How Can a Secondary Care Partner Help?

✅ Giving the primary caregiver time for self-care, social activities, and rest

✅ Helping with meal preparation, household tasks, or technology support

✅ Keeping the person with Parkinson’s engaged through conversation, games, or shared activities

✅ Assisting with errands or age-appropriate chores for younger family members who want to help

🔹 Why It Matters?

Without additional help, primary care partners risk burnout.

By working together, both caregivers and people with Parkinson’s can experience a more balanced and fulfilling life.

If you`re a caregiver, consider reaching out to family or friends—you may be surprised at how many people want to help.

#parkinsons #parkinsonscare #caregiving #carepartners #caregiverwellness #supportnetwork #LightForPD #parkinsonsdisease #parkinsonsawareness #parkinsonsdiseaseawareness #parkinsonawareness #caregiver #goodnews ...

Walking can be challenging for people with Parkinson’s, but the right footwear can provide better stability, reduce fall risks, and improve comfort.

The Michael J. Fox Foundation shares these expert tips to help you find the best shoes:

👟 Sole – Avoid thick, heavily cushioned, or rubber soles that can increase the risk of tripping. A firm but flexible sole allows for better movement.

👟 Base – A wider sole provides more stability, helping to prevent falls.

👟 Toes – Look for shoes with slightly raised toes to reduce the chances of catching on the floor and tripping.

👟 Width – Feet can change over time, so get measured regularly. Choose shoes with a roomy toe box and flexible materials like mesh for added comfort.

👟 Weight – Lighter shoes are better. Heavy shoes can contribute to shuffling or dragging, increasing fall risks.

👟 Laces – Slip-on shoes might seem convenient, but they often lack stability. Opt for lace-up shoes or adjustable Velcro straps. Elastic or curly laces are great for easy fastening.

👟 Ankle Support – If you experience foot dystonia (muscle tightness in the feet or ankles), high-top shoes with strong ankle support can help.

Finding the right shoes is an investment in your safety and well-being.

It may take some time and experimentation, but it`s worth it to find footwear that allows you to move with confidence and comfort.

#parkinsons #shoes #footwear #mobility #parkinsonsdisease #michaeljfoxfoundation #LightForPD #parkinsonsdisease #parkinsonsawareness #parkinsondisease #parkinsonsdiseaseawareness #parkinsonawareness #caregiver #goodnews ...

For many people with Parkinson’s, medication helps manage symptoms for years.

But when motor fluctuations become harder to control, advanced treatment options may be needed.

Surgical therapies can help reduce tremors, stiffness, and movement challenges, improving quality of life.

🔹 Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) – Delivers controlled electrical signals to specific brain areas, easing movement symptoms and some non-motor issues.

🔹 Duopa™ – A gel form of carbidopa/levodopa administered through a pump directly into the small intestine, helping maintain steady symptom control.

🔹 Focused Ultrasound – A non-invasive option that uses sound waves guided by MRI to precisely target and reduce tremors, approved for medication-resistant Parkinson’s tremors.

🔹 Thalamotomy – Targets and lesionsof a small area of the thalamus to help control tremors, typically performed on one side to minimize risks.

🔹 Pallidotomy – Creates a small lesion in the globus pallidus to ease tremors, stiffness, and slow movement, often used for severe motor fluctuations.

🔹 Subthalamotomy – A surgical procedure that removes part of the subthalamus to improve movement. While effective, performing it on both sides increases speech and cognitive risks.

If medication alone isn’t working, talk to your PD specialist to explore whether a surgical option is right for you.

In addition to surgery, light therapy is emerging as a promising treatment for Parkinson’s.

➡️ Learn about the Light for PD trial and how light therapy could be a non-invasive way to help manage symptoms. Visit lightforpd.com to find out more.

#parkinsonstreatment #deepbrainstimulation #dbs #duopa #movementdisorders #parkinsonssurgery #neurology #lighttherapy #lightforpd #parkinsonstrials #LightForPD #parkinsonsdisease #parkinsondisease #parkinsonsdiseaseawareness #caregiver #goodnews ...

As Parkinson’s progresses, many people experience swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) that can make eating, drinking, and even taking medication challenging.

It may lead to coughing while eating, weight loss, choking risks, and even aspiration pneumonia—a serious condition where food or liquid enters the lungs.

🔹 What Can You Do?

✔️ Consult a Speech-Language Pathologist – These specialists can assess your swallowing ability and suggest techniques to make eating safer.

✔️ Work with a Dietitian – They can recommend food textures and meal adjustments to help prevent weight loss and make swallowing easier.

✔️ Try Simple Strategies – Sucking on hard candy may help stimulate swallowing, while botulinum toxin injections or oral atropine drops can reduce excessive saliva (though the latter may not be suitable for older adults).

If you or a loved one are facing swallowing challenges, early intervention can make a big difference in maintaining quality of life.

Talk to your doctor and explore the right solutions for you!

Information source: Parkinson`s Foundation

#swallowingissues #dysphagia #movementdisorders #caregiving #parkinsonsresearch #LightForPD #parkinsonsdisease #parkinsons #parkinsonsawareness #parkinsondisease #parkinsonsdiseaseawareness #parkinsonawareness #caregiver #goodnews ...

Did you know there`s a clinical trial exploring a new, non-invasive approach to Parkinson`s symptom management?

It`s called "Light for PD," and it`s testing a specialized light therapy device called "Celeste."

Here`s what you should know:

↪ Light Therapy for PD: "Light for PD" is researching how light therapy might help people with Parkinson`s.

↪ Targeting Motor & Non-Motor Symptoms: The "Celeste" device is designed to potentially improve both motor skills and non-motor symptoms like sleep, fatigue, and mood.

↪ At-Home & Drug-Free: This at-home therapy is non-invasive and doesn`t require any new medications. It could be a great complement to existing Parkinson`s care.

↪ Open to US Residents: The trial is open to US residents with Parkinson`s who are on a stable dose of dopaminergic medication.

↪ Compensation Provided: Participants will receive $500 upon completion of the trial.

Learn more about the "Light for PD" trial at www,lightforPD.com and see if you qualify!

#ParkinsonsDisease #LightTherapy #ClinicalTrial #Celeste #ParkinsonsResearch #NonInvasive #DrugFree #LightForPD #parkinsonsdisease #parkinsons #parkinsonsawareness #parkinsondisease #parkinsonsdiseaseawareness #parkinsonawareness #caregiver #goodnews ...

Worried about falls with Parkinson`s?

You`re not alone—around 60% of people with PD experience a fall each year. However, taking proactive steps can significantly reduce risk and maintain independence.

🟢 Understanding Your Risks:

Parkinson`s can impact balance, walking, and posture, increasing fall risk. Common contributing factors include:

⇒ Shuffling gait or freezing
⇒ Balance problems
⇒ Low blood pressure (especially when standing)
⇒ Medication side effects
⇒ Muscle weakness
⇒ Cognitive changes
⇒ Vision/perception issues

🟢 Proactive Strategies for Fall Prevention:

✔️ Talk to Your Doctor: Discuss your fall risk factors and get a medication review.

Check your blood pressure regularly. Get hearing and vision screenings.

✔️ Stay Active: Regular exercise is key! Ask your doctor for a referral to physical or occupational therapy.

They can provide personalized exercises, strategies for freezing, and mobility aid recommendations (canes, walkers). Look for therapists certified in PD programs like LSVT BIG.

✔️ Home Safety First: Declutter, remove rugs/cords, install grab bars in the bathroom, and use nightlights. Check out home safety checklists online.

✔️ Safe Movement Practices: Take your time with transitions (sitting, standing, turning).

Widen your stance and take bigger steps. Keep frequently used items within reach. Avoid distractions while walking.

➡️ If a Fall Occurs: Stay calm. Check for injuries and call for help if needed.

— Get up slowly and carefully, using furniture for support if possible.

— Fall Detection Technology: Consider a medical alert system.

By understanding your risks and implementing these strategies, you can take control of your safety and maintain your independence.

#FallPrevention #Balance #Mobility #HomeSafety #ParkinsonsCare #LightForPD #parkinsonsdisease #parkinsons #parkinsonsawareness #parkinsondisease #parkinsonsdiseaseawareness #parkinsonawareness #caregiver #goodnews ...

Living with Parkinson`s Disease (PD) presents unique and often overlapping challenges.

The journey can be complex and sometimes isolating, from managing motor fluctuations to coping with non-motor symptoms.

We want to open a conversation about the realities of living with PD and understand which aspects have the greatest impact.

We`ve identified some common hurdles faced by the Parkinson`s community, but we know this list isn`t exhaustive.

We`d like to encourage you to share your own experiences in the comments below.

For now, please take a moment to vote in the poll and let us know which of these challenges resonates most with you:

➡️ Access to Care: Are you struggling to find specialists, therapies, or support services in your area? Is distance or insurance coverage a barrier?

➡️ Financial Burden: The costs associated with PD care, including medications, therapies, and equipment, can be substantial. Is this a significant concern for you?

➡️ Social Isolation: Do you feel that Parkinson`s has led to social withdrawal or a lack of connection with others? Are you experiencing feelings of loneliness or isolation?

➡️ Lack of Effective Treatments: Are there specific PD symptoms that you find particularly difficult to manage, even with current treatments? Do you feel that research into new therapies is a priority?

➡️ Medication Side Effects: Are you experiencing bothersome or debilitating side effects from your Parkinson`s medications? Is finding the right medication balance a challenge?

Your participation in this Q&A is valuable.

It helps us understand the most pressing needs within the Parkinson`s community and allows us to advocate for better resources, support, and research.

We believe that by sharing our experiences, we can break down stigma, raise awareness, and build a stronger, more supportive community for everyone affected by Parkinson`s.

Let your voice be heard!

#ParkinsonsDisease #ParkinsonsCommunity #PDChallenges #LivingWithPD #ParkinsonsAwareness #Poll #Support #Research #Caregivers #LightForPD #parkinsons #parkinsondisease #parkinsonsdiseaseawareness #caregiver #goodnews ...

PhotoPharmics, a leader in specialized phototherapy for neurodegenerative diseases, has announced Dr. Robert A. Hauser, MD, MBA, as the new Chairman of its Clinical & Scientific Advisory Board (CSAB).

Dr. Hauser steps into this role following the passing of Dr. Warren Olanow, MD, FRCPC, a visionary in Parkinson’s research whose legacy shaped the field and advanced patient care.

➡️ Dr. Hauser’s Expertise & Vision

» Director of the Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders Center at the University of South Florida

» Internationally recognized expert in movement disorders & clinical research

» Committed to advancing patient-centered innovations in Parkinson’s care

What This Means for the Future?

With Dr. Hauser’s leadership, PhotoPharmics continues its mission to transform neurodegenerative care, including its Light for PD Pivotal, Phase 3 study, evaluating a specialized phototherapy device designed to improve the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s.

“As we honor Dr. Olanow’s legacy, we are confident that Dr. Hauser will guide us forward with the same passion and vision.” — Kent Savage, CEO, PhotoPharmics

🔗 Learn more: www.photopharmics.com

#ParkinsonsResearch #LightForPD #ClinicalTrials #NeurodegenerativeCare #PhotoPharmics #LightForPD #parkinsonsdisease #parkinsons #parkinsonsawareness #parkinsondisease #parkinsonsdiseaseawareness #parkinsonawareness #caregiver #goodnews ...

Parkinson`s Disease is more than just movement problems.

Emerging research highlights a deep connection between neurodegeneration and the body`s internal clock – the circadian system.

This intricate system, regulated by light and darkness, influences everything from sleep-wake cycles to hormone release and even cell repair.

➡️ In Parkinson`s, the same brain areas affected by neurodegeneration also play a crucial role in regulating our circadian rhythms.

As these areas are impacted, the body`s internal clock can become disrupted, leading to a cascade of issues.

❓ What does this mean for people with Parkinson`s?

— Sleep disturbances (insomnia, daytime sleepiness)
— Mood changes (depression, anxiety)
— Cognitive decline (memory, focus issues)
— Motor fluctuations (worsening symptom unpredictability)

But there’s hope!

Addressing circadian disruptions can improve quality of life.

↳ Light therapy: Controlled exposure to bright light can help reset the circadian clock. This is an ongoing therapy but has shown some promising results in trials.

Light for PD is one such trial that lets you test this therapy from the comfort of your home. If you`re ready to contribute to Parkinson’s research, visit lightforpd.com to see if you qualify!

↳ Melatonin supplementation: This may help regulate sleep-wake cycles.

↳ Consistent sleep schedule: Maintaining a regular sleep-wake routine, even on weekends, is crucial.

↳ Exercise and activity: Regular physical activity can help synchronize the circadian rhythm.

↳ Consult with your doctor: Discuss treatment options and strategies to manage circadian-related symptoms.

Ongoing research is unlocking new treatment possibilities—understanding this connection is a step toward better care.

📖 Image Source: Hunt, J., Coulson, E.J., Rajnarayanan, R. et al. Sleep and circadian rhythms in Parkinson’s disease and preclinical models. Mol Neurodegeneration 17, 2 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13024-021-00504-w

#LightForPD #parkinsonsdisease #parkinsons #parkinsonsawareness #parkinsondisease #parkinsonsdiseaseawareness #parkinsonawareness #caregiver #goodnews ...

Ever heard of Drug-Induced Parkinsonism (DIP)?

It`s a condition that mimics Parkinson`s Disease (PD) but is caused by certain medications.

DIP is actually the second most common cause of parkinsonism in older adults, after PD itself.

This means it`s crucial to understand the difference!

❓ What causes DIP?

Certain medications that block dopamine, such as:

— Antipsychotics (typical and atypical)
— Gastrointestinal prokinetics
— Calcium channel blockers
— Some antiepileptic drugs

🔹 How is it different from Parkinson’s disease?

One of the key differences between DIP and PD lies in what`s happening in the brain.

In PD, there`s a problem with the production of dopamine, a crucial chemical messenger.

In DIP, the problem is that certain medications block the receptors for dopamine, preventing it from working properly.

Think of it like trying to use a key in a lock that`s been jammed.

Because of this difference, a special type of brain scan called a DAT scan can be helpful.

It can show how much dopamine transporter is present in the brain.

In PD, the amount of dopamine transporter is often reduced, but in DIP, it`s usually normal.

This can help doctors distinguish between the two conditions.

Why it matters?

DIP can significantly impact daily life and persist even after stopping the medication.

That’s why it’s crucial to recognize the signs early and work with a doctor to adjust your treatment.

It`s also important for doctors to be aware of the possibility of DIP when prescribing medications that can affect dopamine receptors and to monitor patients for any signs of movement problems.

Early recognition and proper management of DIP can prevent unnecessary suffering and ensure people receive the correct diagnosis and treatment.

#parkinsonism #druginducedparkinsonism #dopamine #movementdisorders #LightForPD #parkinsonsdisease #parkinsons #parkinsonsawareness #parkinsondisease #parkinsonsdiseaseawareness #parkinsonawareness #caregiver #goodnews ...

What’s Helped You Most in Managing Parkinson’s?

Every person with Parkinson’s experiences symptoms differently, and finding the right treatment or therapy can take time.

Some people rely on medication to manage motor symptoms, while others find that physical therapy helps improve mobility, balance, and strength.

Mindfulness and relaxation techniques can reduce stress and enhance focus, and for those who qualify, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) offers significant symptom relief.

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but learning from others can help navigate the journey.

What has been the most effective treatment or therapy for you?

🔹 Medication
🔹 Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)
🔹 Physical Therapy and Mindfulness
🔹 Others (Let us know in the comments)

💬 Let us know in the comments and vote in the POLL below! 👇

Did you know that non-invasive therapies are being explored to help manage Parkinson’s?

One promising approach is Light Therapy—a treatment that’s gaining attention for its potential to improve both motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s.

You can play a role in advancing Parkinson’s treatment by joining clinical trials. Light for PD is one such trial that lets you test this therapy from the comfort of your home.

If you`re ready to contribute to Parkinson’s research, visit lightforpd.com to see if you qualify!

#parkinsons #parkinsonstreatment #parkinsonsawareness #livingwithpd #parkinsonscommunity #brainhealth #LightForPD #parkinsonsdisease #parkinsons #parkinsonsawareness #parkinsondisease #parkinsonsdiseaseawareness #parkinsonawareness #caregiver #goodnews ...

Living with Parkinson`s means exploring all your options. Beyond medication and surgery, several non-invasive therapies can significantly improve quality of life.

➡️ Lifestyle Changes: Exercise (yoga, tai chi, walking) boosts motor function and balance. A healthy diet and good sleep are also key. Stress management techniques like meditation can be beneficial.

➡️ Physical/Occupational Therapy: These therapies focus on movement, strength, and daily living skills. Therapists create tailored exercise programs and help adapt your environment for easier daily tasks.

➡️ Speech Therapy: Parkinson`s can affect speech. Speech therapists can help improve vocal projection, articulation, and swallowing.

➡️ Complementary Therapies: Some find relief through massage, acupuncture, or reflexology. While research is ongoing, they may offer symptom management and relaxation benefits.

➡️ Emerging Technologies:
TMS: Uses magnetic pulses to stimulate brain areas, potentially improving motor function.
Focused Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to target specific brain regions, reducing tremor and rigidity.
Light Therapy: May improve sleep, mood, and motor function.

Important: Consult your doctor before starting any new treatment. They can help determine the best options for you. Managing Parkinson`s is a team effort.

Interested in light therapy and Parkinson`s research?

Consider the "Light for PD" trial. Visit www.LightforPD.com to learn more.

#ParkinsonsTreatment #NonInvasiveTherapy #MovementDisorders #PhysicalTherapy #SpeechTherapy #TMS #FocusedUltrasound #LightTherapy #LightForPD #parkinsonsdisease #parkinsons #parkinsonsawareness #parkinsondisease #parkinsonsdiseaseawareness #parkinsonawareness #caregiver #goodnews ...

Clinical trials are crucial for developing new Parkinson`s treatments.

Thinking about participating?

Here are five key things to know:

➡️ Rigorous Pre-Trial Testing: New drugs undergo years of lab research, including cell, computer, and animal studies, before human trials even begin.

Only if the preclinical results are promising does a clinical trial get designed.

➡️ Your Safety is Paramount: Clinical trials follow strict regulations, like those from the FDA, and are reviewed by Institutional Review Boards.

Trials are constantly monitored, and if significant safety concerns arise, the trial can be stopped.

➡️ Informed Consent is Key: Before you join, you`ll receive all the details about the trial: potential risks, procedures, and what to expect.

You have time to ask questions, discuss it with loved ones and your doctor, and consider everything before deciding.

➡️ Placebo Doesn`t Mean No Treatment: They help compare new treatments. You may receive standard care plus a placebo or, in some cases, only the placebo instead of the investigational drug.

Placebo-controlled, double-blind studies (where neither you nor the researchers know who gets what) help researchers accurately assess the new treatment`s effectiveness without bias.

➡️ You`re in Control: All drugs, including those in trials, carry potential risks and side effects.

You`ll be informed about these beforehand. Also, the new drug might not work for everyone. Most importantly, participation is completely voluntary. You can withdraw from a clinical trial at any time for any reason.

If you`re interested in contributing to Parkinson`s treatment and the development of non-invasive options, consider joining Light For PD.

It offers at-home therapy that uses specialized light exposure to help improve motor function, sleep, and mood, all while reducing reliance on medications.

By participating, you can help advance research and bring new treatment options to those living with Parkinson’s.

Share your questions and experiences!

#LightForPD #parkinsonsdisease #parkinsons #parkinsonsawareness #parkinsondisease #parkinsonsdiseaseawareness #parkinsonawareness #caregiver #goodnews ...

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a complex condition, and while researchers know it’s caused by a mix of genetic and environmental factors, the exact root cause remains unknown.

However, growing evidence suggests that the immune system may play a significant role—raising the question: Is Parkinson’s an autoimmune disease?

Normally, our immune system protects us from harmful invaders like bacteria and viruses.

But in autoimmune diseases, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own healthy cells, causing chronic inflammation and damage.

Conditions like multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis are well-known autoimmune disorders.

Could PD be similar?

Studies suggest that PD may involve an autoimmune response.

Researchers have found that in people with Parkinson’s, the immune system mistakenly targets a protein called alpha-synuclein, which builds up in the brain and forms toxic clumps known as Lewy bodies.

This triggers an attack from immune T cells, damaging dopamine-producing brain cells and potentially accelerating disease progression.

One study from Columbia University in 2017 provided the first direct evidence of this immune attack.

Another in 2020 confirmed that people with PD—especially in the early stages—showed a specific T-cell response to alpha-synuclein, something not seen in healthy individuals.

If PD is at least partly autoimmune, this could open new doors for diagnosis and treatment.

Some experimental treatments, like sargramostim (Leukine) and monoclonal antibody therapies, show promise in modulating the immune response. Other research suggests that medications that suppress the immune system, like corticosteroids, might reduce PD risk.

While we’re not yet at a definitive answer, the link between PD and the immune system is an exciting frontier in research. Could this lead to new breakthroughs? Let’s keep the conversation going.

#Parkinsons #Autoimmune #parkinsonsResearch #LightForPD #parkinsonsdisease #parkinsons #parkinsonsawareness #parkinsondisease #parkinsonsdiseaseawareness #parkinsonawareness #caregiver #goodnews ...

Living alone with Parkinson’s comes with unique challenges, but it also allows for independence.

With the right strategies, you can make daily life easier and stay connected to support systems.

Here are some practical tips:

✅ Set Up Your Space for Success
Organize essentials within easy reach so you don’t struggle to find what you need. Small adjustments can make a big difference!

✅ Keep Handy Tools Nearby
A simple pair of pliers can help open jars or packaging when grip strength is an issue.

✅ Make Your Phone Work for You
Activate accessibility features like Touch Accommodations or Voice Commands to navigate your device effortlessly.

✅ Plan Around Your Best Hours
Schedule important tasks when you feel most energetic and set reminders for medications to stay on track.

✅ Don’t Hesitate to Ask for Help
You’re independent, but that doesn’t mean you have to do everything alone. Lean on friends, family, or community resources when needed.

✅ Stay Social, Even from Home
Join online support groups, attend virtual events, or volunteer remotely to maintain a sense of connection.

Living alone doesn’t mean being alone. With the right approach, you can maintain independence while staying safe and supported.

💬 What’s your top tip for living alone with Parkinson’s? Share in the comments!

#livingwithpd #parkinsonsawareness #parkinsonssupport #LightForPD #parkinsonsdisease #parkinsons #parkinsonsawareness #parkinsondisease #parkinsonsdiseaseawareness #parkinsonawareness #caregiver #goodnews ...

Pill burden in Parkinson’s disease (PD) refers to the number of medications a person takes to manage symptoms.

As PD progresses, medications and dosing frequency often increase, making treatment more complex. This can lead to:

🔹 Missed or skipped doses – Managing multiple medications daily can be overwhelming.
🔹 Increased side effects – More medications mean a higher risk of interactions and unwanted effects.
🔹 Lower quality of life – The stress of constant medication management can impact well-being.

Common Side Effects of PD Medications
— Nausea, dizziness, and constipation
— Dry mouth, hallucinations, and impulse control issues
— Dyskinesia (involuntary movements)

Side effects vary from person to person. If your medications are affecting your daily life, talk to your doctor—they may adjust your treatment plan.

How to Reduce Pill Burden & Manage Symptoms
✔️ Ask about alternative treatments – Some medications may work in fewer doses.
✔️ Use a medication organizer – Helps track doses and avoid missed medication.
✔️ Stick to a routine – Taking medications at the same time daily improves adherence.
✔️ Prioritize healthy habits – A balanced diet, exercise, and good sleep can ease symptoms.

An emerging option to manage PD symptoms without adding to pill burden is Light for PD, a clinical trial by Photopharmics.

This non-invasive therapy uses specialized light exposure to improve motor function, sleep, and mood—common challenges for people with PD.

Unlike medications, Light for PD does not introduce additional side effects or require multiple daily doses, making it a promising alternative or complement to traditional treatments.

📌 Want to learn more? Visit lightforpd.com to explore this groundbreaking clinical trial.

Managing Parkinson’s doesn’t have to mean taking more and more pills. Talk to your doctor, explore new options, and find the right balance for your treatment.

#pillburden #parkinsonsmedication #LightForPD #parkinsonsdisease #parkinsons #parkinsonsawareness #parkinsondisease #parkinsonsdiseaseawareness #parkinsonawareness #caregiver #goodnews ...

The year is unfolding fast—we’re already into the second week of February!

❓ So, how are your New Year’s resolutions going?

Are you keeping up, or are they starting to feel more like a burden?

If you’re feeling frustrated about not meeting your goals, you’re not alone.

Resolutions often come with rigid expectations, and when life—especially life with Parkinson’s—throws unexpected challenges your way, it’s easy to feel like you’ve failed.

But here’s the thing: growth isn’t about perfection, and success isn’t about sticking to a strict set of rules.

That’s why setting intentions rather than resolutions can be a game-changer. Intentions focus on the journey, not just the outcome.

They allow flexibility, self-compassion, and progress at your own pace—things that are especially important when managing a condition like Parkinson’s.

Instead of saying, “I will exercise every single day,” try, “I will move in a way that feels good today.”

Rather than, “I must stay positive no matter what,” set the intention to acknowledge small wins, like making time for a call with a friend or practicing mindfulness for a few minutes.

These small, adaptable steps create long-term habits without the pressure of ‘all or nothing’ thinking.

So, as we wrap up the first month of the year, take a moment to shift your focus.

What’s one intention you can set for yourself this week—something small yet meaningful?

💙 Let’s make this journey one of growth, not guilt.

#selfcompassion #smallsteps #LightForPD #parkinsonsdisease #parkinsons #parkinsonsawareness #parkinsondisease #parkinsonsdiseaseawareness #parkinsonawareness #caregiver #goodnews ...