25 Thoughtful Gifts for Someone with Parkinson’s Disease
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Finding the perfect gift for someone living with Parkinson’s disease can feel challenging, but it doesn’t have to be. The most meaningful gifts offer comfort, support in daily challenges, or bring joy to everyday routines. Whether you’re shopping for a loved one, friend, or care partner, these thoughtful ideas can make a genuine difference in their quality of life.

The right gift doesn’t just brighten their day—it can help them live more confidently, more independently, and more comfortably. Keep reading to discover impactful ideas that truly matter.

Recognizing Early Signs of Parkinson’s Disease: What You Need to Know
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, speech, and overall quality of life. Detecting PD early can make a significant difference in managing symptoms and maintaining independence. Some early signs of Parkinson’s may be subtle, but noticing them promptly can lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment.

You may not realize it, but small changes in your handwriting, posture, or sense of smell could be your body’s first signals of Parkinson’s. Understanding these signs can empower you to take action before symptoms significantly impact daily life.

For many people living with Parkinson’s disease, changes in speech, voice, memory, and communication can be some of the most frustrating challenges. These shifts can affect confidence, connection, and everyday interactions—but with the right tools and support, individuals can strengthen their abilities and maintain independence.

Here’s the encouraging news: targeted speech and cognitive strategies can help retrain the brain, support clearer communication, and improve cognitive resilience. Keep reading to learn how you can access these tools and expert guidance.

How Neuroplasticity and Exercise Strengthen the Parkinson’s Brain: Join Our January 14 PD Talk
Living with Parkinson’s disease often means navigating challenges in movement, balance, and everyday tasks. But the brain has a remarkable ability that offers hope: neuroplasticity, the process through which it adapts, rewires, and forms new neural pathways. Understanding how to activate this power can be a game-changer for anyone living with Parkinson’s.
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Here’s the exciting part: research shows that targeted exercise can significantly boost neuroplasticity—helping the brain work smarter, move better, and stay stronger. Keep reading to learn how.

Sleep apnea is more than a nighttime breathing problem—it may also be linked to long-term brain health. A new study published in JAMA Neurology found that people diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea are significantly more likely to develop Parkinson’s disease later in life. And one key treatment may help lower that risk.
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But what does this mean for individuals living with sleep apnea today—and how can early intervention make a difference? Keep reading to learn what researchers discovered and why it matters.

Unlock the Power of Food: PD Talk on Nutritional Strategies for Parkinson's Disease
 
A diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease (PD) brings with it many questions, but one of the most proactive and empowering steps you can take is focusing on what’s on your plate. While medication is crucial, the daily choices you make about food and drink profoundly impact symptom management, energy levels, and overall quality of life when living with PD. Often, dietary changes can be a subtle yet powerful lever for better health, especially when navigating challenges like tremors, constipation, or medication timing.
 
Are you managing Parkinson's but feel like you're missing a key piece of the wellness puzzle? You might be overlooking the simplest, most accessible tool available every single day: your diet. Keep reading to discover how tailored nutritional strategies can fundamentally shift your PD journey and how you can join a free expert talk to learn exactly where to start.

What Is Parkinson Syndrome? Understanding Symptoms, Causes, and Early Support
Parkinson syndrome—often called parkinsonism—is a group of neurological conditions that cause symptoms similar to Parkinson’s disease, including tremors, stiffness, slowed movement, and balance problems. While Parkinson’s disease is the most common type, several other conditions can also cause parkinsonism, each with its own causes, progression, and treatment approaches.

Keep reading to learn the key differences, early signs to watch for, and why getting support as soon as possible can dramatically improve quality of life.

Caring for someone living with Parkinson’s disease can be deeply meaningful—but also physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding. That’s why the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida is offering Powerful Tools for Caregivers (PTC), a free, evidence-based 6-week program designed to help caregivers stay healthy, confident, and resilient.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, exhausted, or unsure how to balance caregiving with your own well-being, this program can be life-changing. Keep reading to discover how these classes strengthen your skills, reduce burnout, and improve daily life—for you and the person you care for.

Fall Prevention and Assistive Devices: Strategies for Safety and Confidence with Parkinson’s
Falls are one of the most common—and most concerning—challenges for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Changes in balance, gait, posture, and coordination can increase fall risk, but there are proactive steps that can significantly improve safety and independence. That’s why the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) is hosting a Free PD Talk: Fall Prevention & Assistive Devices on December 17 at 3:00 pm via Zoom, featuring Dr. Megan Walsh, DPT, NCS, C/NDT, Clinical Assistant Professor at FGCU.
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If you or someone you love is navigating mobility challenges, keep reading—these strategies can empower you to stay active, confident, and safe at home and in the community.

Behind-the-Wheel Driving Evaluations for Parkinson’s: What You Need to Know
Staying safe and confident on the road is an important part of independence, especially for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Driving can be affected by changes in reaction time, mobility, and cognitive processing—but there are practical ways to evaluate and support safe driving abilities. That’s why the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) is hosting a Free PD Talk: Behind-the-Wheel Driving Evaluations on December 3 at 3:00 pm via Zoom.
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Wondering how a driving evaluation works—or whether you or a loved one should consider one? Keep reading to discover how a professional driving assessment can help maintain independence while keeping everyone safe.

Living with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) can feel overwhelming, especially after a new diagnosis. While there is currently no cure, research continues to show that there are effective ways to slow progression, improve function, and support long-term quality of life. The key is understanding what works—and building consistent habits that protect brain health.

Here’s the surprising part: many of the best strategies aren’t complicated or medical—they’re lifestyle changes shown to make a meaningful difference. Keep reading to learn the most effective, science-supported ways to slow the progression of Parkinson’s Disease.

Living with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) can bring emotional, physical, and social challenges that affect both the individual diagnosed and their loved ones. While medications and therapies play an essential role in managing symptoms, many people underestimate the powerful impact of something just as important--support.

If you’ve ever wondered why so many neurologists, therapists, and PD organizations recommend joining a support group, the answer is simple: because support groups consistently help people live better, feel better, and stay better connected. Keep reading to learn exactly how.

Parkinson's Disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that impacts millions worldwide, affecting movement, balance, and cognitive function. While often associated with prominent tremors, the earliest signs of Parkinson's are often subtle and can easily be overlooked or attributed to aging. Recognizing these initial indicators can be crucial for an early diagnosis, allowing for timely intervention and better management strategies. The journey with Parkinson's is unique for everyone, but understanding its whispers can empower individuals to seek help sooner.

Could those nagging, seemingly minor changes you've noticed be more than just stress or fatigue? Join us as we explore the crucial early signs of Parkinson's Disease, empowering you with the knowledge to act.

A diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease (PD) brings uncertainty — many people ask: How will it progress? What kind of future can I expect? While each person’s journey is unique, understanding the typical course of PD and key prognosis factors can help you feel more prepared and empowered.

Imagine watching your body change slowly—one movement after another becoming harder—and yet finding strength and strategy to keep living well. This is exactly what many people with PD navigate every day. Keep reading to learn how Parkinson’s progresses, what milestones to anticipate, and how prognosis is shaped.

Parkinson’s disease (PD) affects millions of people around the world, yet its symptoms can vary widely from person to person—and often start subtly. Recognizing the early signs can make a meaningful difference in diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life.

What if the “weird little changes” you notice—like your handwriting shrinking or your voice growing softer—turn out to be early clues to a serious condition? Keep reading to learn the full range of symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and what they mean.

Michael J. Fox, the beloved actor and founder of the Michael J. Fox Foundation, has been living with Parkinson’s disease since his diagnosis in 1991. Over more than three decades, he has experienced many hallmark symptoms of the condition while becoming one of the world’s leading advocates for research and care.

Imagine being diagnosed at 29—full of promise and energy—and then watching your body betray you in small, invisible ways: a trembling finger, slowed movement, difficulty walking. That’s the reality Michael J. Fox faces, yet his determination and purpose haven’t wavered.

The Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) invites you to a free virtual discussion, “Neuroplasticity & Exercise,” on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at 3:00 PM via Zoom. Presented by Mildred Octelus, PASWFL Movement Instructor, this PD Talk explores how exercise strengthens neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to rewire itself—helping people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) improve movement, coordination, and quality of life.
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What if your daily exercise routine could actually retrain your brain?
Recent research shows that exercise stimulates neuroplasticity, helping the brain form new connections that improve movement, balance, and thinking skills—especially for individuals with Parkinson’s disease.

When people think of Parkinson’s disease, one name often comes to mind: Michael J. Fox. Since his diagnosis in 1991, the beloved actor has turned his personal battle with Parkinson’s into a global mission to find a cure. The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research (MJFF) has become the world’s largest nonprofit funder of Parkinson’s research — accelerating science, empowering patients, and bringing hope to millions.
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Here’s why you’ll want to keep reading: MJFF is doing far more than funding research — it’s transforming the way we understand, diagnose, and treat Parkinson’s disease. And while national organizations like MJFF drive scientific breakthroughs, local organizations like the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) are the ones helping people live well today.

Wow — what an incredible night! Thank you to everyone who made this year’s Bingo for Bags & Baubles such a huge success. The event was completely sold out, filling the room with a record 350 players who brought unmatched energy and generosity. Together, we raised more than $75,000 to support the mission of the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) — a new fundraising record that will directly impact lives in our community.

Didn’t make it to this year’s Bingo for Bags & Baubles? Keep reading to see how your support makes a lasting difference for people living with Parkinson’s disease right here in Southwest Florida — and why you’ll definitely want to join us next year!

When most people think of Parkinson’s disease, they picture a progressive, inevitable disorder. But what if that view is changing? In Oprah Daily’s article “Can Parkinson’s Be Prevented? New Research Says Yes,” two doctors share a bold vision: Parkinson’s might not just be treatable—it may largely be preventable.

What if many cases of Parkinson’s could be prevented before they even begin—right in your home, using everyday choices? Read on to discover how emerging research links environment, lifestyle, and actionable steps to cut Parkinson’s risk.

Every October, National Estate Planning Awareness Week helps spotlight something most people avoid thinking about—death, incapacity, and how their legacy will be handled. But for organizations that offer day-to-day support to people with chronic illnesses, such as Parkinson’s disease, a strong local estate planning strategy is more than a “nice to have.” It’s critical to sustaining mission impact.

When local nonprofits like PASWFL are included in estate plans, it ensures our community can continue delivering vital services for people with PD—services that can’t wait for a cure to arrive.