Medicare Open Enrollment: Why It Matters for People with Parkinson’s
For individuals living with Parkinson’s disease (PD), navigating Medicare Open Enrollment can feel overwhelming. With so many options, rules, and annual changes, it’s easy to miss opportunities that directly impact your care and financial well-being. Preparing ahead is one of the best ways to make sure you get the coverage you need.

👉 Medicare choices aren’t one-size-fits-all—especially when you’re living with Parkinson’s. The right plan can help cover specialized care, medications, and therapies that support quality of life. But the wrong plan may leave gaps in coverage and unnecessary expenses. Keep reading to discover the unique considerations for Parkinson’s and how to prepare for Open Enrollment with confidence by attending a free Zoom session on Thursday, October 9, 2025 @ 3 pm

Podiatric Health in Parkinson’s Disease: Why Foot Care Matters -  Free PT Talk on October 8, 2025, via Zoom
When most people think about Parkinson’s disease (PD), symptoms like tremors, stiffness, or speech difficulties often come to mind. But one important area of health that is often overlooked is podiatric health—the care and condition of your feet.

💡 Why keep reading? Because foot care directly impacts balance, mobility, and comfort—three essentials for maintaining independence and quality of life with Parkinson’s disease. Understanding this connection can make a meaningful difference in daily living.

The Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) is thrilled to announce that registration is now open for our signature fundraising event, A Step Forward – Overcoming Obstacles. This powerful luncheon takes place on Friday, March 20, 2026, at 11:30 AM at the beautiful LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort in Naples, Florida.

💡 This event is more than a luncheon—it’s a rare opportunity to hear a decorated Marine combat veteran and national voice of resilience share his incredible journey, while also supporting life-changing programs for those living with Parkinson’s in our community.
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This inspiring afternoon features guest speaker Johnny “Joey” Jones—retired Marine Staff Sergeant, decorated combat veteran, best-selling author, and FOX News contributor. His story of resilience, recovery, and overcoming obstacles will leave guests motivated and inspired.
👉 Seats are limited—reserve yours today at CLICK TO LEARN MORE

When a loved one is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD), the journey ahead can feel uncertain—not only for the person with Parkinson’s but also for their care partner. Care partners play a crucial role in daily life, providing emotional support, managing appointments, and adapting to changing needs over time. While the responsibility can feel overwhelming, understanding what to expect and where to turn for help makes a world of difference.

👉 So, what do care partners of someone with Parkinson’s need to know? Let’s explore the most important insights, resources, and strategies to help care partners support their loved ones while also caring for themselves.

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, balance, and coordination. While it most often develops later in life, symptoms can begin subtly, sometimes years before diagnosis. Recognizing the early warning signs is key to seeking medical advice, getting a proper evaluation, and starting supportive care as soon as possible.

👉 So, what are the symptoms and early signs of Parkinson’s? Let’s explore the most common indicators, what they mean, and why early detection matters

Parkinson’s disease is on the rise worldwide, and researchers are urgently looking for answers. More than 11.8 million people are currently living with Parkinson’s, and the numbers are expected to keep climbing. What’s fueling this dramatic increase? Some scientists believe everyday chemicals — including pesticides and solvents — may be playing a bigger role than we realize.
👉 Could where you live — even something as ordinary as being near a golf course -- increase your risk of developing Parkinson’s? Keep reading to learn what researchers have discovered, what chemicals are under scrutiny, and practical steps you can take to protect yourself.

The 10 Most Common Diseases: Understanding the Health Risks That Affect Millions
When it comes to health, knowledge is power. Across the globe, certain diseases consistently rank as the most common—impacting millions of lives each year. Understanding these conditions, their risk factors, and their prevalence can help you take preventive steps to protect your health and support loved ones.

👉 But what exactly are the 10 most common diseases, and why should you pay attention to them? Keep reading to learn more about the conditions that affect people everywhere and what you can do to lower your risk.

Living with Parkinson’s disease (PD) comes with many challenges, but one of the most serious and preventable risks is falling. Falls can lead to injuries, hospitalizations, and a loss of independence—but with the right awareness, strategies, and support, many of these risks can be reduced.

👉 So, why is fall prevention so important for those with Parkinson’s disease? Let’s take a closer look at the connection between PD and falls, and how proactive steps can help protect health and quality of life. Free seminar information below.

When someone is diagnosed with a movement disorder, one of the first questions that often arises is whether it’s Parkinson’s disease or a condition that looks similar, like Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD). While the two share overlapping symptoms, they are not the same, and understanding the differences is key to getting the right treatment, care, and support.

👉 So, how do Parkinson’s and CBD differ—and why does it matter for patients and families? Let’s break it down.

How Does Parkinson’s Differ from ALS?
When someone receives a diagnosis of a neurological condition, one of the first questions often asked is: “Is this Parkinson’s disease or ALS?” While both are progressive disorders affecting movement and quality of life, they differ significantly in their causes, progression, and treatment options. Understanding these differences can ease fears, guide care decisions, and empower individuals and families to take the right next steps.

👉 Keep reading to discover the key distinctions between Parkinson’s disease and ALS—and why understanding them matters for living well.

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is one of the most common neurological disorders, affecting movement, balance, and overall quality of life. For many, the first question after noticing tremors, stiffness, or slowed movement is: Is there a test for Parkinson’s disease?

👉 The short answer may surprise you: there is currently no single definitive test for Parkinson’s. Instead, doctors use a combination of clinical evaluations, medical history, and specialized imaging to make an accurate diagnosis. Keep reading to learn how Parkinson’s is diagnosed, what tests are available, and why early detection is so important.

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, speech, and overall quality of life. Understandably, one of the most common questions people ask is: Can Parkinson’s disease be prevented?

👉 While there is no guaranteed way to prevent Parkinson’s, research suggests that lifestyle choices, environmental factors, and genetics all play a role. Read on to explore what science says about lowering risk and how you can take steps to support brain health.

Living with Parkinson’s disease (PD) can feel overwhelming at first, but research shows that proactive lifestyle changes can make a meaningful difference. While there is currently no cure for Parkinson’s, the choices you make each day—especially when it comes to physical activity, nutrition, and social connection—can improve symptoms, slow progression, and enhance quality of life.
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👉 So, can lifestyle or exercise help manage Parkinson’s? The answer is yes—and it may be one of the most powerful tools available to you today. Keep reading to learn why movement, wellness practices, and supportive resources matter.

When someone is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD), one of the most common questions is: “What are the stages of Parkinson’s, and what do they mean for me or my loved one?” Understanding the stages of Parkinson’s doesn’t just help patients and families prepare—it also provides hope by showing how much can be done at each stage to preserve independence and quality of life.

👉 Keep reading to learn how Parkinson’s typically progresses, what each stage means, and how the right support can make all the difference.

When Is DBS Appropriate for Parkinson’s Disease Treatment?
Receiving a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis can feel overwhelming, and many families wonder what treatment options are available beyond medication and therapy. While exercise, medication, and support programs are critical, some individuals with Parkinson’s may reach a point where additional interventions are considered. One such option is Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS).

👉 So, when is DBS the right choice for someone living with Parkinson’s disease? Keep reading to learn what makes a person a good candidate for this treatment and how it fits into the larger care journey.

Tremors are often one of the first and most noticeable symptoms of Parkinson’s disease (PD). For many, these involuntary shaking movements can make everyday tasks—like writing, eating, or holding a cup of coffee—challenging and frustrating. While tremors don’t affect every person with Parkinson’s the same way, they are among the most common motor symptoms.

The good news? There are several ways to manage Parkinson’s tremors—through medications, therapies, lifestyle changes, and support programs. Keep reading to learn what works best and how you or your loved one can regain confidence in daily life.

When the legendary NFL quarterback Brett Favre took the stand before Congress in late 2024, his statement did more than address policy—it revealed something deeply personal: his diagnosis with Parkinson’s disease.

Dive deeper to learn how Favre’s health challenge highlights the importance of early signs, traumatic brain injury connections, and why awareness—not fear—is our greatest ally.

Living in Southwest Florida means sunshine, palm trees, and the beauty of coastal living—but it also means preparing for hurricane season each year. For individuals living with Parkinson’s disease, storm readiness takes on an added layer of importance. From medications to mobility, thoughtful planning can make all the difference in keeping you safe and confident if a hurricane threatens our community.
So, how can you prepare for hurricane season in SWFL with Parkinson’s disease? Let’s explore practical steps and trusted resources that ensure peace of mind before the next storm arrives.

When tremors, stiffness, or balance issues appear, one of the first questions people ask is: Could this be Parkinson’s disease? Unlike many conditions, there isn’t a single blood test or scan that can confirm Parkinson’s. Instead, diagnosis relies on a careful medical evaluation.

👉 Hook: Because Parkinson’s can look like other movement disorders, such as essential tremor or atypical Parkinsonism, getting an accurate diagnosis from a specialist is critical. Keep reading to learn how doctors determine if it’s Parkinson’s—and what steps come next.

When people first notice symptoms like tremors, muscle stiffness, or trouble with balance, their first thought might be Parkinson’s disease. But not all Parkinson-like symptoms point to that diagnosis. Some people are living with what’s called Atypical Parkinsonism—a group of neurological conditions that resemble Parkinson’s but have important differences.

👉 So, what exactly is Atypical Parkinsonism, and how does it differ from Parkinson’s disease? Let’s take a closer look.

Can stress cause Parkinson’s disease? It’s a question many people ask when first noticing symptoms or after receiving a diagnosis. Stress impacts the body in countless ways—raising blood pressure, affecting immunity, and contributing to chronic illness. But when it comes to Parkinson’s disease (PD), the answer is more nuanced.
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👉 Keep reading to discover what research shows about the connection between stress and Parkinson’s, and how managing stress can support better quality of life for those living with PD.

When a loved one begins to show signs of memory loss, movement difficulties, or changes in behavior, families often wonder: Is it Parkinson’s Disease or something else? One condition that is often confused with Parkinson’s is Lewy Body Dementia (LBD). Because the two disorders share overlapping symptoms, it’s common for people to feel uncertain or overwhelmed.

👉 So, is Lewy Body Dementia the same as Parkinson’s Disease? Continue reading to discover the differences, their interconnection, and why support is crucial for navigating both effectively.

When a person begins to notice shaking in their hands or other parts of their body, one of the first questions that comes up is: Is this Parkinson’s disease—or could it be something else, like essential tremor? Both conditions can look similar at first, but they are distinct disorders with different causes, symptoms, and treatments.

Understanding the difference between Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor is crucial—not only for an accurate diagnosis but also for finding the right treatment and support. Keep reading to learn the key distinctions that can help bring clarity and peace of mind.

When neurologist Michael Okun, MD, first used the phrase “Parkinson’s pandemic” over a decade ago, his warning was dismissed as alarmist. Today, the numbers show he may have been ahead of his time. In 2020, Dr. Okun projected there would be 12 million people living with Parkinson’s by 2035.
Shockingly, the latest estimates already put the global number at 11.8 million cases — and rising rapidly. As he told Katie Couric Media, “The growth has been explosive.”

This dramatic increase in Parkinson’s disease cases is sparking urgent questions: What’s driving the rise? What can be done to slow it? And how can individuals protect themselves?

Receiving a Parkinson’s disease (PD) diagnosis often brings a flood of questions. One of the most common—and understandably most urgent—is: How long can someone live with Parkinson’s disease?

👉 The answer is encouraging: with modern treatments, lifestyle adjustments, and the right support, many people with Parkinson’s live for decades after their diagnosis. Life expectancy can be close to that of the general population, especially when symptoms are managed well.