Substantial Matters: Life & Science of Parkinson's
Substantial Matters: Life & Science of Parkinson's is a podcast by the Parkinson's Foundation that explores treatments, techniques, and research to help people with Parkinson's live better today. Each episode highlights practical strategies and scientific advancements, aiming to improve quality of life for those affected. The podcast also provides resources and encourages listener feedback through the foundation's website.
Episodes
Understanding REM Sleep Disorder in Parkinson's
Sleep problems affect more than 75% people with Parkinson's disease (PD) and can have a significant impact on day to day life. Common challenges include difficulty falling or staying asleep, excessive sleepiness during the day, and acting out dreams while asleep. This episode focuses on REM (Rapid Eye Movement) Sleep Behavior Disorder, or RBD, a condition in which people may verbally and/or p
¡EN ESPAÑOL! Cómo identificar las señales: Problemas de deglución en el Parkinson
¡Siga y califíquenos en su plataforma favorita de podcasts para recibir notificaciones cuando salga un nuevo episodio! Cuéntenos que otros temas le gustaría que cubriéramos visitando parkinson.org/podcastencuesta. Muchas personas asumen que los problemas para tragar, o la disfagia, solo ocurren en las etapas más avanzadas de la enfermedad de Parkinson (EP). En realidad, como estos cambios pu
What Your Gut Has to Do with Parkinson's
Interest in the gut microbiome and its potential role in Parkinson's disease (PD) continues to grow. Before exploring the latest research, it's helpful to understand what the microbiome is, the role it plays in overall health, and why researchers are studying its connection to Parkinson's. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Lisa Deuel from the University of Vermont Medical Center about what r
Speaking with Intention
Changes in speech and swallowing are common in Parkinson's disease (PD), but they can be difficult to recognize without understanding how they may present. These changes often happen because of lower dopamine levels in people with PD, which can make automatic actions- like speaking loud, clear sentences without requiring much thought- more difficult. Parkinson Voice Project developed the SPEAK O
Raising Awareness About Parkinson's Through Advocacy
There are countless ways to get involved in raising awareness about Parkinson's disease (PD)- whether it's striking a conversation with someone at the grocery store, signing a petition, or meeting with your local members of congress. At its core, policy change begins with meaningful conversations. The more we openly talk about PD, the more we build understanding, urgency, and momentum to shape the
Questions to Ask When Considering Deep Brain Stimulation
The standard treatment plan for Parkinson's disease (PD) typically begins with medications to help manage symptoms. As the disease progresses, symptoms may worsen or medications may become less effective over time. If this happens, more advanced treatment options may be considered, such as Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), pump medications, or focused ultrasound. Understanding the potential benefit
Improving Safety and Parkinson's Care in the Hospital
People with Parkinson's disease (PD) are at a higher risk of being hospitalized and often face even greater challenges once admitted. Of the more than 1 million people living with PD in the US, nearly one third are hospitalized each year. During a hospital stay, they are more likely to receive the wrong medication, encounter missed or delayed dosages, receive medications known to worsen PD symptom
¡EN ESPAÑOL! Manejo de los periodos en "off" en el Parkinson
Cuando los síntomas del Parkinson están bajo control durante el día, esto se conoce como estar en "on". Cuando los efectos del(los) medicamento(s) empiezan a desaparecer y los síntomas reaparecen o empeoran, se consideran periodos en "off". Estas fluctuaciones de los síntomas pueden variar de una persona a otra; algunas personas pueden notar más sí
Breakthroughs Take Time: Looking at the Future of Parkinson's Research
There is still much to learn about Parkinson's disease (PD), and it remains an ongoing challenge for scientists and researchers. The Parkinson's Foundation recognizes the importance of supporting new and innovative ideas to advance research toward a cure. Research takes time- from a conceptual idea to early laboratory work, with the hope of eventually progressing to clinical stages and, u
Prioritizing Parkinson's Care
One of the key missions of the Parkinson's Foundation is to increase access to high-quality care for everyone living with and affected by Parkinson's disease (PD). As more people are diagnosed with PD each year, the availability of PD specialists remains limited. During a recent visit to Washington, DC, the Foundation led a National Roundtable on Parkinson's Care and Innovation with the goal of co
Conversations with Our Loved Ones
Caregiving takes many forms — from spouses, family members and friends providing daily, hands-on care, to those supporting from a distance to individuals managing care responsibilities on their own. No matter the circumstance, every caregiver plays an important role. This year, the Parkinson's Foundation is highlighting the diverse experiences of caregivers within the Parkinson's disease communit
¡EN ESPAÑOL! Envejecer juntos en casa: Apoyo a aliados en el cuidado y familias
Noviembre es el Mes Nacional de Cuidadores Familiares, una época para honrar a quienes cuidan desinteresadamente de sus seres queridos. Este año, la Parkinson's Foundation destaca las diversas experiencias de los cuidadores dentro de la comunidad de la enfermedad de Parkinson y más allá con nuestro tema: Cuidado real. En cualquier lugar. Cuidar de una persona con Parkinson significa prestar mucha
Finding Relief: Bladder Issues in Parkinson's
Many people with Parkinson's disease experience urinary or bladder issues at some point in their journey. These symptoms can take different forms and may affect people differently based on gender. Recognizing the signs is the first step toward understanding how to manage them and when to seek care. In this episode, Dr. Ankita Gupta, MD, MPH, FACOG, a urogynecologist at University of Louisville H
Stories From Our Volunteers
Our Parkinson's Foundation Ambassadors are the backbone of our outreach, bringing awareness about Parkinson's disease (PD) directly into local communities. From leading community walks, to staffing tables at resource fairs, to starting meaningful conversations about the urgency of PD -- there are many ways to get involved with the Foundation. Each of our ambassadors has their own story and special
Allied Health Spotlight: Partnering with an Occupational Therapist
Allied health professionals are a group of healthcare providers whose role and expertise complement the work of physicians. They include specialists such as physical and occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, nutritionists, and many more. They are just as important as your Movement Disorders Specialists and Neurologists and play a vital role in creating a comprehensive, well-round
What to Know Before Taking Nutritional Supplements for Parkinson's
People with Parkinson's disease (PD) may hear, whether through word of mouth or the internet, about herbs or supplements that claim to ease PD symptoms. It's important to recognize that nutritional supplements are not federally regulated, and there is limited research supporting their overall effectiveness. You should always speak with your healthcare provider before starting a new medication or s
Make Every Minute Count: Optimizing Your Parkinson's Doctor Visits
Medical appointments can feel overwhelming – there may be many questions on your mind and not enough time to address everything with your doctor. Preparing a list of questions and concerns ahead of time can help you focus on what matters most to you and ensure you're actively advocating for your care. To support this process, the Parkinson's Foundation created a worksheet that offers a step-by-st
¡EN ESPAÑOL! Paso a paso: encontrar el equilibrio con Parkinson
Las caídas y los problemas de equilibrio son frecuentes en el Parkinson, sobre todo a medida que avanza la enfermedad. Estos síntomas pueden dificultar las tareas diarias al afectar su capacidad para caminar y moverse con confianza. Comprender cómo afecta el Parkinson al equilibrio y reconocer otras posibles causas es esencial para encontrar las estrategias adecuadas para controlar los síntomas,
Understanding Depression, Anxiety, and Apathy
Depression, anxiety, and apathy are common symptoms that are often overlooked in people with Parkinson's disease (PD). Nearly half of those living with PD are likely to experience depression or anxiety at some point, but these non-motor symptoms often go unrecognized and undertreated. Because their signs can overlap and mimic one another, it can be challenging to pinpoint exactly what someone is g
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 experi
¡EN ESPAÑOL! Consejos prácticos y recursos para vivir bien con Parkinson
La línea de ayuda de la Parkinson's Foundation cuenta con personal de enfermería, trabajadores sociales y educadores de la salud. Están disponibles por teléfono y correo electrónico para responder a sus preguntas e inquietudes acerca de la enfermedad de Parkinson, tanto en inglés como en español. Nuestros especialistas de la Línea de Ayuda responden llamadas de personas de toda la comunidad de
The Role of Caregivers in Parkinson's Dementia
Thinking and memory changes, also known as cognitive changes, may become more noticeable as Parkinson's disease (PD) progresses. If these symptoms begin to interfere with everyday tasks, it may be a sign of dementia. Understanding the signs of dementia in Parkinson's, along with its different names and variations, is essential for tailoring treatment options to your specific symptoms. The early
Allied Health Spotlight: The Challenges of Speech and Swallowing Issues
Allied health professionals are a group of healthcare providers whose role and expertise complement the work of physicians. These include specialists such as physical and occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, nutritionists, and many more. They are just as important as your Movement Disorders Specialists and Neurologists, and play a vital role in creating a comprehensive, well-roun
Reframing Your Thoughts with Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the intentional act of paying attention to one's body, sensations, thoughts, feelings, or surroundings in the present moment, without judgment. Practicing mindfulness can give a sense of calm, help manage pain, reduce stress, and improve clarity and mental well-being. In being aware of and calmly accepting feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations in a non-judgmental way, individual
The Evolution of PD GENEration for Genetic Testing & Counseling
The Parkinson's Foundation makes life better for people with Parkinson's disease (PD) by improving care and advancing research toward a cure. The Foundation recognizes the importance of funding and supporting research studies dedicated to better understanding the causes of PD, developing more effective treatments, and ultimately finding a cure. The Foundation awards research grants to support in
¡EN ESPAÑOL! Los desafíos del habla y la deglución
Los profesionales de la salud aliados son un grupo de profesionales médicos cuya función y conocimientos complementan la labor de los médicos. Entre ellos se encuentran los fisioterapeutas, terapeutas del habla y el lenguaje, nutricionistas y más. Son tan importantes como sus especialistas en trastornos del movimiento y neurólogos y desempeñan un papel vital en la creación de un equipo de atenció
Listening to the Voices of Our Parkinson's Caregivers
Each November, the Parkinson's Foundation joins organizations across the country to honor care partners for National Family Caregivers Month. In this episode, we highlight the stories and experiences of two people who care for a person with Parkinson's disease. Ripley Hensley is an emergency room nurse and a doctoral student at the University of Connecticut School of Nursing. Although she currentl
Current Tools for Receiving a Parkinson's Diagnosis
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a "clinical" diagnosis, based on a person's medical history, symptoms, and physical exam. Although certain laboratory or imaging tests can be helpful in reaching a diagnosis, no single test can confirm PD. Among the tests currently used to support a PD diagnosis, or to rule out other conditions that can mimic PD, are magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain, the do
¡EN ESPAÑOL! Alucinaciones y delusiones en el Parkinson
Alrededor de un 20-40% de las personas con Parkinson experimentan algún tipo de alucinación o delusión en algún momento de su recorrido por la enfermedad de Parkinson (EP). Aunque en la actualidad los estudios no indican que la comunidad hispanohablante de la EP corra un mayor riesgo de desarrollar estos síntomas, sigue siendo importante conocer los posibles signos para estar mejor preparado para
Allied Health Spotlight: Physical Therapy Recommendations for Exercising Safely
Allied health professionals are a group of healthcare providers whose role and expertise complement the work of physicians. These include specialists such as physical and occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, nutritionists, and many more. They are just as important as your Movement Disorders Specialists and Neurologists, and play a vital role in creating a comprehensive, well-rou
Introducing Our Hospital Safety Guide
A hospital stay can be a stressful situation for everyone, whether you are the person receiving care or the support person providing comfort. People with Parkinson's (PD) are at a higher risk of hospitalizations, so it is crucial to be prepared ahead of time for when the situation arises. The Parkinson's Foundation recently created the Hospital Safety Guide, which is the updated and improved ver
¡EN ESPAÑOL! Colaborando con los trabajadores de salud comunitaria
Los trabajadores de salud comunitaria (TSC o CHW, por sus siglas en inglés) o promotores ayudan a cerrar la brecha entre los profesionales de la salud y los miembros de la comunidad proporcionando educación y recursos culturalmente competentes y relevantes a la comunidad local. Desempeñan un papel vital en la interacción con la comunidad para identificar necesidades, proporcionar educación sanitar
Implications of Gene-Based Therapies for Parkinson's Disease
Gene-based therapy for Parkinson's disease is an area of research that is currently being developed. It works by introducing genetic material into the brain, which can then "instruct" cells to produce compounds that can potentially alleviate symptoms of Parkinson's. Although years have gone by since the first gene-based clinical trial, there is still much to learn before fully realizing its poten
Celebrating Our Parkinson's Foundation Volunteers
This month, we are honoring and celebrating our Parkinson's Foundation volunteers. Every volunteer helps make a difference in the everyday lives of people living with Parkinson's disease, whether it's by helping organize a local community walk, serving as a research advocate providing feedback and collaborating with scientists on research studies, or speaking at a panel for a community education
Exploring Carbidopa-Levodopa for Treating Parkinson's Symptoms
Carbidopa-levodopa is considered the "gold standard treatment" for Parkinson's disease. Levodopa works to replace levels of dopamine in the brain, thereby alleviating PD symptoms, while Carbidopa works to reduce adverse effects in the rest of the body. Although years have passed since the creation of this treatment, it is still commonly known to be an effective drug for reducing PD symptoms in a
Navigating Disparities, Ethics, and Stigma in the Black Parkinson's Community
Black and African American people diagnosed with Parkinson's disease (PD) face disparities in healthcare access and outcomes, potentially leading to decreased access to care, resources, and research opportunities. It is crucial to recognize their unique needs and experiences so that scientists can better understand how PD impacts diverse communities. The Parkinson's Foundation aims to identify the
Community Conversations – Re(building) Trust and Sharing Resources
Black and African American people diagnosed with Parkinson's disease (PD) face disparities in healthcare access and outcomes, potentially leading to decreased access to care, resources, and research opportunities. It is crucial to recognize their unique needs and experiences so that scientists can better understand how PD impacts diverse communities. The Parkinson's Foundation aims to identify the
Reintroducing Our Podcast Moderator
As we start the new year, we wanted to turn the tables on our podcast host and moderator, Dan Keller. Dan has hosted our Substantial Matters podcast series since it began more than five years ago. In this episode, we share some insight into his background, his experience, and how he came to host this series, starting as a laboratory researcher, to journalism student, to medical journalist and broa
¡EN ESPAÑOL! Navegar su cuidado en los inicios del diagnóstico
Recibir un diagnóstico de la enfermedad de Parkinson (EP) puede ser una experiencia que cambie su vida, pero hay pasos que puede tomar desde el principio para ayudar a crear y mantener una vida de calidad con la EP. Aprender más acerca de la enfermedad, identificar una red de apoyo y formar un equipo de profesionales de la salud son algunos de los primeros pasos que hay que dar. Aunque pueda esta
¡EN ESPAÑOL! Cuidar de una madre con Parkinson
Los cuidadores y aliados de cuidado brindan un apoyo inestimable a las personas que viven con la enfermedad de Parkinson (EP). Con el tiempo, el papel del cuidador puede tener que ajustarse y adaptarse a medida que avanza la enfermedad. Aunque el cuidado pueda parecer la tarea principal que lo abarca todo, es vital que usted sea capaz de encontrar el tiempo y los recursos necesarios para cuidar de
Caregiving Over the Years
Parkinson's disease is a chronic and progressive disease that affects both the person with Parkinson's and the care partner. Considerations need to be made to deal with the present challenges, while also anticipating future caregiving needs. Patsy Ponder Dalton was the caregiver for her husband, David, since he was diagnosed with Parkinson's at the age of 44. Even after David's passing, she is sti
Research Series: Getting Involved in Research with Young-Onset PD
Early-onset, also called Young-onset Parkinson's disease (YOPD), affects about 4% of the one million people with Parkinson's disease (PD) in the United States, with a diagnosis before age 50. Although there are many characteristics similar to late-onset PD, there are a few differences such as disease progression, response to medications, and genetic risk factors. Because of the earlier age of onse
Atypical Parkinsonism Series: Unique Care Needs of PSP, CBD and MSA and Helpful Resources
Considered "atypical Parkinsonian syndromes," over half of people with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), corticobasal degeneration (CBD) and multiple system atrophy (MSA) are initially misdiagnosed with Parkinson's disease (PD) due to similarities in early symptoms as well as lack of awareness of these rare, neurodegenerative diseases among many healthcare professionals and the general public.
Atypical Parkinsonism Series: Treatment and Interdisciplinary Approach to Care
Considered "atypical Parkinsonian syndromes," over half of people with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), corticobasal degeneration (CBD) and multiple system atrophy (MSA) are initially misdiagnosed with Parkinson's disease (PD) due to similarities in early symptoms as well as lack of awareness of these rare, neurodegenerative diseases among many healthcare professionals and the general public.
Research Series: Parkinson's Foundation Expansion of PD GENEration to Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic
Researchers have discovered several genes that are associated with the risk of developing Parkinson's disease (PD). To better understand this relationship, the Parkinson's Foundation is conducting a large population study, PD GENEration: Mapping the Future of Parkinson's Disease, a national initiative that offers genetic testing and counseling for Parkinson's-related genes at no cost for people wi
Atypical Parkinsonism Series: Overview, Diagnosis and Prevalence
Considered "atypical Parkinsonian syndromes," over half of people with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), corticobasal degeneration (CBD)/corticobasal syndrome (CBS), and multiple system atrophy (MSA) are initially misdiagnosed with Parkinson's disease (PD) due to similarities in early symptoms as well as lack of awareness of these rare, neurodegenerative diseases among many healthcare professi
Pump Therapy
Typical treatment of Parkinson's disease (PD) consists of oral levodopa/carbidopa, along with other oral medications. Although there is no one-size fits all treatment, people with PD may experience more "off" periods, or symptom fluctuations, as the disease progresses. In this case, non-oral treatments, such as pump therapy, may be another option to consider. Examples of currently available pump
Research Series: Expanding PD GENEration
Variants of several genes have been identified that raise the risk of developing Parkinson's disease (PD). PD GENEration: Mapping the Future of Parkinson's Disease is the Parkinson's Foundation groundbreaking initiative that seeks to uncover the relationship between genetics and one's risk for PD. The goal is to eventually help people better manage their disease, facilitate research into better tr
¡EN ESPAÑOL! Los efectos del Parkinson sobre el sueño
Existen diversas causas de los problemas del sueño que pueden experimentar las personas con Parkinson. Entre los trastornos del sueño más comunes están la apnea del sueño (asociada normalmente a un ronquido fuerte), el insomnio y el trastorno donde las personas actúan los sueños mientras duermen. También sabemos que los problemas emocionales, que son síntomas no motores del Parkinson, pueden est
The Evolution of the Parkinson's Foundation Hospital Care Initiative
Of the one million people living with Parkinson's disease (PD) in the United States, nearly one-third of them will have a hospital encounter each year. When hospitalized, three out of four people with PD will not receive their medications on time, possibly leading to worsening symptoms, medical emergencies, and a significantly increased length of stay, greatly increasing costs to the medical syst
Sexuality from the Care Partner Perspective
Intimacy is a significant part of any relationship, and sexuality is an important aspect of intimacy. Parkinson's disease (PD) can present challenges for both intimacy and sexuality, both for the person with PD and for the care partner. The Parkinson's Foundation Helpline can be a good resource for coping with these issues. In this episode, Anna Moreno, MSW, a Senior Parkinson's Information Speci
How People with PD Can Prepare for Routine Outpatient Procedures
Since routine outpatient procedures may pose special needs and risks for someone with Parkinson's disease (PD), extra planning is in order for the period before, during, and after the procedure. The procedures may be medical or dental, for example, teeth cleanings, colonoscopy, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Fortunately, the Parkinson's Foundation has developed a course that highlights
The Link Between Art and Parkinson's Disease
There's a new and greater understanding of the relationship of Parkinson's disease (PD) and art. Engaging in artistic practices can enhance mood, cognitive function, and enjoyment of life for people with PD. Importantly, how art causes these effects is giving greater insight into the neurobiological basis of how people in general create and respond to art. Central to this insight is the role of t
Strategies to Address Apathy and Exercise Motivation
Besides being a movement disorder and affecting other physical functions, such as the digestive system, blood pressure control, and sleep, Parkinson's disease (PD) can alter cognition, other mental functions, and mood. Apathy can be part of the disease, resulting in a lack of interest, enthusiasm, or motivation. It can result in a vicious cycle, decreasing one's motivation to exercise and follow
¡EN ESPAÑOL! La hospitalización con la enfermedad de Parkinson
Las investigaciones han encontrado que 3 de cada 4 personas con la enfermedad de Parkinson no reciben medicamentos a tiempo cuando están internadas en el hospital. Cuando esto ocurre, 2 de cada 3 personas experimentarán complicaciones innecesarias. Con visitas hospitalarias más a menudo y una alta sensibilidad a la frecuencia y dosificación de los medicamentos para la enfermedad de Parkinson, la
Dispelling Myths of Palliative Care
A common misconception is that palliative care implies hospice, when in fact, palliative care can and should be a component of the treatment of any serious disease, including Parkinson's. The word "palliation" means providing relief from pain and other symptoms, with a goal of improving quality of life. Individuals receiving palliative care also may receive other treatments, with curative intent
¡EN ESPAÑOL! Opciones quirúrgicas en el tratamiento de la enfermedad de Parkinson
Aunque los medicamentos suelen ayudar a minimizar las fluctuaciones motoras de la enfermedad de Parkinson, hay ocasiones en las que la medicación no es suficiente y se plantean opciones de tratamiento avanzadas. Es importante explorar las opciones quirúrgicas con su especialista en la EP si esto es algo que puede considerar. La cirugía a menudo se reserva para aquellos que han optimizado y agota
How Artificial Intelligence Can Detect Parkinson's from Breathing Patterns
Historically and even today, Parkinson's disease (PD) is a clinical diagnosis, wherein a physician observes signs of the disease and an individual reports symptoms. In routine practice, there is no blood test, other biomarker, or machine to make the diagnosis or to track progression of the disease. But given advances in computing power and through computer analysis of massive amounts of data, art
How to Prevent Sudden "Off" Episodes
"Off" episodes can become a troubling aspect of Parkinson's disease (PD), especially as the disease progresses. These are periods in the day when the effect of levodopa medication wears off, either suddenly or gradually, with a return of motor or non-motor symptoms. The good news is that there are several ways to try to minimize "off" episodes, including medication timing, medication adjustme
¡EN ESPAÑOL! Cambios en la vista relacionados con el Parkinson
La visión es uno de los sentidos que tenemos que está conectado directamente con el sistema nervioso central. Cuando hay alguna enfermedad neurológica o algún problema que afecta esta área del cerebro, podemos esperar cambios en la visión. En este episodio, hablamos con el doctor Juan Ramírez-Castañeda, profesor asociado de neurología en la University of Texas at San Antonio y director del progr
Maximizing Resources with The Parkinson's Foundation Helpline
With Parkinson's disease (PD), it's essential to know where to find a movement disorder neurologist, a physical or occupational therapist, social services to help with daily activities, and agencies that can advise on elder issues. When you don't know that certain services even exist, looking for them is impossible. This is where the Parkinson's Foundation Helpline can be an essential resource. H
Parkinson's Disease in the Black Community
An early Parkinson's diagnosis is the first step to getting Parkinson's symptoms under control and living well with Parkinson's. Getting a PD diagnosis is also one of the first obstacles many people in the Black PD community experience. Research has shown racial disparities in the diagnosis and treatment of Parkinson's – finding that Black people with PD are diagnosed at a later disease stage
Treating Depression
Parkinson's disease (PD) depression may be a biological part of the disease itself, resulting from PD-related changes in brain chemistry. Untreated depression and other mood disorders can have a greater impact on well-being than even common motor symptoms. Depression affects at least 50 percent of people with PD sometime in the course of their disease, but it is often under-recognized and, there
How to Cope with Blood Pressure Fluctuations
Parkinson's disease (PD) affects several automatically regulated bodily functions, such as digestion, bowel activity, sweating, and blood pressure control, together known as autonomic functions. Low blood pressure, or hypotension, is common in PD, and high blood pressure (hypertension) can also occur. They may be a result of the disease itself or be caused by some of the medications to treat it. H
Meet the Researcher: How Pesticides Impact Parkinson's
Researchers are accumulating evidence about how the environment affects our health and our diseases – both our internal and external environments. A significant part of our internal environment is the gut microbiome, that is, the bacteria, fungi, and viruses that naturally inhabit our intestinal tracts. The external environment is everything around us that we eat, inhale, or come into contact with
Being There for Your Parent with Parkinson's
Adult children of a parent with Parkinson's disease (PD) often want to help their parent but do not know how to begin. If they get involved early, they can detect changes that need to be addressed later on. A good first step is learning about the disease, its symptoms, treatment, and course. From there, they may want to become an active part of the support team that each person with PD should have
How Social Workers Can Help Ease Anxiety about the Unknown
The news of a Parkinson's diagnosis can be overwhelming. So many questions arise, including how it will change the person's life, what lies ahead, and what to do first. Social workers can be a vital resource in helping a newly diagnosed person, care partner, and family navigate the road ahead, as well as provide ongoing support through the course of the disease. They are the health professionals w
What to Do When the Next Medical Appointment is Months Away
Medical problems often do not follow a schedule, and it can be frustrating to get them addressed when the next doctor appointment is weeks or months away. It's important to have a plan about what to do for support between clinic appointments. A good first step is to discuss the issue with your health care team and to arrange to have a designated person or point of contact should such a situation a
¡EN ESPAÑOL! Crear un plan de autocuidado y por qué es importante para los cuidadores
Ser trabajadora social en una clínica significa ser parte del equipo médico y brindar atención a las personas que viven con Parkinson y a sus familias. En este episodio, hablamos con Adriana González, trabajadora social en el Centro para el Parkinson y Otros Trastornos del Movimiento de la University of California, San Diego. Como trabajadora social, Adriana ayuda a las familias y a los cuidador
Community Care Programs for Care Partners
Caregiving can be an intensive endeavor, not to mention the physical, mental, emotional, and even financial aspects of it. Just as people with Parkinson's disease need support services, so, too, do their care partners. In this episode, Social Worker Cara Iyengar, MSW, LISW, the coordinator of the Parkinson's Foundation Center of Excellence at the University of Iowa in Iowa City, discusses some of
Fall 2022 Moving Day at Home Program
Join community members from across the country for this virtual experience that allows you to move for Parkinson's from wherever you are! This program will help you get motivated and kick off your 60 minute walk. Remember, you can walk, run, hike your favorite route, or simply just listen to the Moving Day at Home program! We encourage everyone to share photos of their experience by posting to you
¡EN ESPAÑOL! Cambios cognitivos
Cuando uno piensa en la enfermedad de Parkinson (EP), es fácil asociarla más con los síntomas motores, como la rigidez o el temblor; pero también existen síntomas no motores, como los cambios de estado de ánimo, la ansiedad o la depresión. En este episodio, hablamos con la doctora Elsa Baena, neuropsicóloga clínica en el Barrow Neurological Institute, Centro de Excelencia de la Parkinson's Found
Medication-Induced Parkinsonism - How is it Different?
This episode explores parkinsonism, a group of conditions with symptoms similar to those of Parkinson's disease, itself a neurological degenerative brain disorder resulting from neurons in the brain failing to make enough dopamine. It is characterized by a loss of motor control, including stiffness, slow movements, resting tremors, and postural instability. Plus, non-motor symptoms of depression,
CEO John Lehr Offers Broad Insight into the Parkinson's Foundation
Past podcasts have given glimpses into the broad range of programs and initiatives that the Parkinson's Foundation has developed and supports. But to give a better understanding of the Foundation's mission, its operation, reach, and funding, we spoke with John Lehr, its president and CEO. He discussed the reasons for the merger of the National Parkinson Foundation and the Parkinson's Disease Found
Traveling with Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's disease (PD) can be an impediment to certain activities, but with proper planning, people can still pursue many of the things they have always enjoyed. One of those things is travel – to see family, visit friends, or explore new sights and cultures. One key to enjoying travel is planning. Pay special attention to issues that are known to affect how you feel and function. Packing ext
Feeling Nausea with Parkinson's
People often view Parkinson's disease (PD) in terms of its motor symptoms, including slow movements, tremors, and stiffness. Often, these symptoms can be controlled with levodopa or other dopaminergic drugs. But just as troubling or more so to the person with PD are the non-motor symptoms of nausea, constipation, low blood pressure, mood disturbances, sleep problems, and more. In this episode, we
Meet the Researcher: Disparities in PD Care
As with many medical conditions, people with Parkinson's disease (PD) may experience disparities in access to care, in diagnosis, treatments, and ancillary care. These disparities may be based on age, gender, race, financial situation, language barriers, and geographic location, among other factors. Dr. Lynda Nwabuobi, now a movement disorders specialist at New York-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Park
Channeling Creativity Throughout the Parkinson's Journey
Many people with Parkinson's disease (PD) continue to work, socialize, and enjoy life, making accommodations as necessary to fit the disease into their lifestyles. And while no one would choose to have PD, some people have even found or created benefits of having it. One of them is Barry Blaustein, an award-winning Hollywood writer, director, and producer, who wrote several of Eddie Murphy's movie
Managing Comorbidities with Parkinson's Disease
Just as people in the general population have to contend with various unrelated medical conditions, so may people with Parkinson's disease (PD). Such conditions are termed "comorbidities," that is, diseases or conditions occurring along with, in this case, PD. Examples are cardiovascular disease, strokes, arthritis, diabetes, asthma, cancer, cataracts, other diseases of aging, as well as those tha
¡EN ESPAÑOL! Definición y manejo de la distonía
La distonía es un trastorno del movimiento que causa contracciones involuntarias de los músculos. Estas contracciones llevan a posturas anormales de partes del cuerpo y a veces a movimientos repetitivos. En este episodio, hablamos con la doctora Marta San Luciano, Profesora Asociada de Neurología en la University of California San Francisco, acerca de la definición y el manejo de la distonía. La
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