Ohio Parkinson Foundation Northeast Region

Tips for dealing with Parkinson Disease (PD)

Exercise and stay physically active. Because PD affects mobility it is important to maintain strength, flexibility, and good posture. Activities such as stretching, walking, stationary biking, and swimming can be very effective in building strength and flexibility. In some cases Tai Chi has been shown to be helpful in improving balance in those with PD. Exercise in group classes helps fight boredom. Community walking clubs and water-aerobics are also effective. Many communities have low-cost facilities equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and frequently offer instruction for those interested. There are many resources about exercise for people with PD (see links). A physical therapy assessment can be beneficial in helping you design a physical activity program based on your needs.
Diet. Maintaining good nutritional habits are critical for overall strength and vitality. A balanced diet provides nutrients for energy and helps maintain good control of weight. Some of the medications to treat Parkinson’s may have an interaction with foods. For example, protein foods may interfere with absorption of levodopa/cardipopa (Sinemet) if taken at the same time. Always consult your physician or health care professional with questions you may have about your medications and foods. If you are having trouble with swallowing or excessive saliva talk to your physician about a speech therapy evaluation.
Wardrobe. With reduced motor skills, simple tasks such as buttoning shirts and pants, or tying shoes can be difficult. Clothing with elastic waists, pull-on shirts and dresses and minimal buttons, zippers, hooks and ties are often effective. An occupational therapist can provide assistance with learning new skills with these tasks.
Compensating strategies. Finding a way to work around and overcome problems associated with PD is important. For example, using a debit or credit card may be easier than searching for coins and bills. Using voice activated computer software may be helpful if using a keyboard is a problem.
Naps. Taking a short nap several times a day to maintain energy can effectively fight off fatigue common among PD patients.
Be understanding. While medical treatment and lifestyle adjustments can help minimize symptoms, people still may notice things such as tremor. Try not to become offended but rather seize the opportunity to educate and advocate.


Ohio Parkinson Foundation Northeast Region
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Mailing Address Ohio Parkinson Foundation Northeast Region P.O. Box 271 Tallmadge, Ohio 44278 1-800-630-3193

		Tips for dealing with Parkinson Disease (PD) Exercise and stay physically active. Because PD affects mobility it is important to maintain strength, flexibility, and good posture. Activities such as stretching, walking, stationary biking, and swimming can be very effective in building strength and flexibility. In some cases Tai Chi has been shown to be helpful in improving balance in those with PD. Exercise in group classes helps fight boredom. Community walking clubs and water-aerobics are also effective. Many communities have low-cost facilities equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and frequently offer instruction for those interested. There are many resources about exercise for people with PD (see links). A physical therapy assessment can be beneficial in helping you design a physical activity program based on your needs. Diet. Maintaining good nutritional habits are critical for overall strength and vitality. A balanced diet provides nutrients for energy and helps maintain good control of weight. Some of the medications to treat Parkinson’s may have an interaction with foods. For example, protein foods may interfere with absorption of levodopa/cardipopa (Sinemet) if taken at the same time. Always consult your physician or health care professional with questions you may have about your medications and foods. If you are having trouble with swallowing or excessive saliva talk to your physician about a speech therapy evaluation. Wardrobe. With reduced motor skills, simple tasks such as buttoning shirts and pants, or tying shoes can be difficult. Clothing with elastic waists, pull-on shirts and dresses and minimal buttons, zippers, hooks and ties are often effective. An occupational therapist can provide assistance with learning new skills with these tasks. Compensating strategies. Finding a way to work around and overcome problems associated with PD is important. For example, using a debit or credit card may be easier than searching for coins and bills. Using voice activated computer software may be helpful if using a keyboard is a problem. Naps. Taking a short nap several times a day to maintain energy can effectively fight off fatigue common among PD patients. Be understanding. While medical treatment and lifestyle adjustments can help minimize symptoms, people still may notice things such as tremor. Try not to become offended but rather seize the opportunity to educate and advocate.

Ohio Parkinson Foundation Northeast Region • P.O.Box 271, Tallmadge, Ohio-44278 • 1-800-630-3193 This page was last modified on