PARKINSON DISEASE

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Spending time with friends who have Parkinson’s disease can be deeply meaningful—and understanding what to expect will help you connect with empathy and patience. Parkinson’s affects people differently, but here’s a general overview of what you might notice

Parkinson's Disease Basics: What You Need to Know | Parkinson's Foundation

This program offers an introduction and basic overview of Parkinson’s disease (PD). PD varies from person to person and changes over time. Discover its causes, common symptoms, available treatments and effective strategies for managing them. Learn practical daily living tips to empower you to take charge of your health and to navigate the challenges of living with PD

✅ What You Might Notice

1. Movement Challenges

• Tremors (especially in hands) even when resting.

• Slowness of movement (bradykinesia): It might take them longer to start walking, get out of a chair, or complete a task.

• Stiffness or rigidity: Movements may look stiff or hesitant.

• Balance issues: They may walk with small steps or appear unsteady.

2. Speech and Facial Expression

• Soft voice or slurred speech can make conversation harder to follow.

• Reduced facial expression (called “masked face”), which might seem like they’re less emotionally responsive—but they are still fully present inside.

3. Fatigue and "Off" Periods

• They may tire easily or have “off times” when their medication isn’t working well.

• They might move or speak more slowly during these times and may need to rest.

4. Mood and Cognitive Changes

• Some people experience depression, anxiety, or mild cognitive changes like forgetfulness or trouble with multitasking.

• These are part of the disease—not a reflection of their relationship with you.

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🤝 How You Can Be Supportive

1. Be Patient with Pace and Silence

• Allow more time for conversations or activities.

• Don’t rush them. Let them initiate movement when they’re ready.

2. Be Mindful of Safety

• Avoid clutter or trip hazards if you’re walking or visiting.

• Offer a steady arm if walking over uneven ground, but always ask first.

3. Speak Clearly and Calmly

• If their hearing or processing is affected, speak slowly and face them directly.

• Don’t interrupt if they are slow to speak.

4. Respect Their Independence

• Don’t do things for them unless they ask.

• Offer choices rather than assumptions. (“Would you like help with this?”)

5. Accept the Quiet Moments

• If they have reduced energy or aren’t chatty, just being together still matters.

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❤️ Ways to Make the Time Enjoyable

• Talk about shared memories—they likely remember well.

• Play music they enjoy or reminisce with photos.

• Do simple activities together: walks, sitting outside, light gardening, puzzles.

• Listen generously—even if they speak slowly, they have a lot to share.

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Final Thought

Your presence alone is powerful. Parkinson’s may affect your friends’ bodies and speech, but it does not take away who they are. With some awareness and empathy, your time together can be comforting, joyful, and full of connection.