The best Parkinson’s support groups provide a diverse range of support, assistance and activities for people with Parkinson’s disease and their families. Generally, a good Parkinson’s support group will help you understand the medical aspects of Parkinson’s disease, including common symptoms and possible side effects from medication. You also should join a group that has members who are understanding and willing to encourage each other.
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive central nervous system disorder than can impair speech and movement. A slowing or eventual loss of physical movement is common. Parkinson’s disease also can cause tremors or muscle rigidity.
A common function of a Parkinson’s support group is to provide a forum that will allow you to talk openly about symptoms and any emotional and social changes you are experiencing. These group discussions can result in sharing tips for how to deal with certain symptoms. This kind of Parkinson’s support group can offer anecdotal and professional advice by sharing the latest research or news. Sometimes, medical professionals and other guest speakers are brought in to address the group.
A Parkinson’s support group that has a website and online forum is another consideration. Visiting a website or online forum can give you a feel for what the support group is like and whether you think it is the right one for you. You might even prefer to participate entirely online, although there are benefits to getting out of the house and interacting with others who are dealing with Parkinson’s disease. Try to find a support group that best suits your own personal style and includes people who are supportive and friendly.
Some Parkinson’s support groups center certain creative hobbies and group activities. Some experts believe that creative activities can help reduce Parkinson’s disease symptoms. Art, music and dancing are all popular choices.
Exercise can also be beneficial for people who have Parkinson’s disease. In addition to exercise being fun, it can help people with Parkinson's maintain their balance and movement. Some exercise classes are open to both Parkinson’s disease patients and their caregivers.
A support group for those who have depression because of Parkinson’s disease can also be beneficial. Chemical changes in the brain brought on by Parkinson’s disease can lead to depression. Trying to cope with the disease can bring on depression symptoms, as well. Counseling and medication are often used to treat depression.
Support groups for Parkinson’s disease caregivers are also important. Often, a caregiver is a family member with no prior medical training. Caregivers can assume this role abruptly and unexpectedly, and it most often means a major change in lifestyle.
A Parkinson’s support group for caregivers can help teach them how to manage their own lives while caring for a loved one. Much like the patient, a caregiver can experience a wide range of emotions when dealing with Parkinson’s disease. Caregivers also should learn how to ask for and receive help in caring for their loved one, so they do not become burned out or unable to function in their own lives.
