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.

When someone hears the word Parkinson’s, one of the most common fears that arises is dementia. Because Parkinson’s is known as a neurodegenerative disease, it’s natural to wonder: Does everyone who has Parkinson’s eventually develop dementia?

👉 The answer may surprise you. While cognitive changes are possible, not all people with Parkinson’s develop dementia—and for many, symptoms are manageable with the right strategies and support.

For many people living with Parkinson’s disease, changes in speech can be one of the most frustrating symptoms. Words may become soft or mumbled, conversations harder to follow, and expressing feelings more difficult. These changes, known as hypophonia (reduced voice volume) and dysarthria (slurred or unclear speech), are caused by the effects of Parkinson’s on the muscles used for speaking and breathing.

👉 But here’s the good news: speech exercise programs can make a big difference—helping people maintain stronger voices, clearer speech, and better communication with family and friends.

When someone begins to experience symptoms such as tremors, muscle stiffness, or difficulty with balance, the first thought might be Parkinson’s disease. However, not all conditions that resemble Parkinson’s are the same. Some fall under the broader term Parkinsonism. Understanding the difference is important for diagnosis, treatment, and support.

👉 So, what exactly separates Parkinson’s disease from Parkinsonism? Keep reading to find out — the answer can help families navigate care more effectively.

When someone in your family is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, it’s natural to wonder: Is Parkinson’s hereditary? It’s a question that often carries fear and uncertainty, especially for children or grandchildren who may worry about their own risk.

👉 Keep reading to learn what science tells us about genetics and Parkinson’s — and why family history is only one piece of the puzzle.

If you think yoga is just about stretching, think again. At the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL), yoga is so much more—it’s a lifeline for balance, flexibility, mental focus, and emotional well-being. For individuals living with Parkinson’s disease (PD), each movement matters. Yoga offers a safe, supportive way to build strength, improve mobility, and ease stiffness—while also providing a sense of calm and control over the unpredictable nature of PD. And the best part? These classes are free for members and tailored to meet the needs of every participant, no matter their experience level. Let's dive deeper into the benefits of Yoga as a form of exercise for PD.

Living with Parkinson’s disease doesn’t always mean you need round-the-clock assistance. For many, the need for help comes and goes — and that’s where intermittent support comes in. This flexible approach allows individuals to get the assistance they need only when they need it, empowering them to stay as independent as possible while still having help available during challenging times.

Here’s the thing -- intermittent support can make the difference between feeling isolated and staying connected, between struggling alone and having the right resources at the right time. Let’s take a closer look at how it works and why it matters.

Receiving a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis can be daunting, and some may feel tempted to “wait and see” before starting treatment. But ignoring Parkinson’s symptoms can have serious consequences — not only for your mobility and health but also for your overall quality of life. The truth is, Parkinson’s is a progressive condition, and early intervention can make a profound difference in slowing symptom progression, preserving independence, and maintaining emotional well-being. Learn why early intervention matters.

Understanding Hypokinetic Dysarthria in Parkinson’s Disease
For many people living with Parkinson’s disease (PD), speech changes can be one of the most frustrating symptoms. Friends and loved ones may start asking them to “speak up” or “slow down,” and conversations may require more effort than before. These changes are often the result of a condition called hypokinetic dysarthria—a speech disorder directly linked to the effects of PD on the brain and muscles used for speaking.

Why does Parkinson’s affect speech in the first place—and more importantly, what can be done to improve communication? Keep reading to discover how PD impacts the voice and how speech exercise can help people be heard again.

When you or a loved one hears the words “You have Parkinson’s disease,” the first question is often, “What’s the best treatment?” While there is no cure yet, the number one treatment for managing Parkinson’s disease (PD) remains medication—particularly levodopa—which helps replenish dopamine levels in the brain to improve motor symptoms like tremors, stiffness, and slowness.
For decades, levodopa, often paired with carbidopa, has been the gold standard for PD symptom control. These medications work by replacing the dopamine the brain no longer produces in adequate amounts, allowing many people to move more freely and with less discomfort. In many cases, medication can be life-changing, restoring independence and quality of life for years. But here’s the thing--medication is just one piece of the puzzle.

If you’ve ever smiled through a silly improv game and felt lighter afterward, you’ve already experienced a small version of what improvisational theatre can do for people with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Improv isn’t just fun—it’s a therapeutic tool that helps with communication, cognitive flexibility, mood, and social connection. In Naples, Florida, the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) is among a small number of community groups offering regular improv for PD—led by Margot Escott, LCSW, who has trained with top improv teachers and used applied improvisational theatre (AIT) in clinical settings for 15 years. PASWFL offers these classes for free on Saturdays via Zoom, making this creative therapy accessible to people across Southwest Florida and beyond.

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD), you may have heard the term “five stages of Parkinson’s” and wondered what it really means. Understanding these stages can provide clarity, help you prepare for changes, and guide conversations with healthcare providers. While every person’s experience with PD is unique, these stages offer a general framework that describes the progression of symptoms over time. Here are the 5 stages explained...

Imagine living with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and feeling as though you’re doing “all the right things” — taking your medications, exercising, eating well — yet your symptoms still interfere with daily life. The truth is, Parkinson’s is a complex, progressive condition, and even with treatment, symptoms can fluctuate. This is where the 5:2:1 rule comes in — a simple tool for recognizing when someone’s current treatment plan may need adjusting.

​It’s a question that crosses many minds the moment they hear the word “Parkinson’s”—but the truth may surprise you. While Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder in the world, there’s still no single known cause. If you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed, or if you’re searching for answers after noticing troubling symptoms, understanding the risk factors and scientific insights can help you take the first step toward managing PD with knowledge and hope.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease (PD), one of the first questions you may ask is, “Where can I find the best care?” While several top-tier medical centers across the U.S. offer specialized Parkinson’s treatment, the answer isn’t always about the largest or most well-known institutions. The best Parkinson’s center is the one that offers compassionate, comprehensive care where you are—support that meets the needs of both those diagnosed and their families, every step of the way.

What You Don’t Know Can Help You
When most people hear “Parkinson’s Disease,” they think of tremors and older adults. But PD is a complex neurological condition that affects people in many different ways—and at all stages of life. Understanding the truth about Parkinson’s can lead to better care, earlier diagnosis, and greater compassion for those living with it. Here are 10 important things everyone should know:

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, one of the most important—and often overlooked—questions is: Where is the best place to live with Parkinson’s? While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, the right location can make a world of difference in maintaining independence, receiving quality care, and finding a supportive community.

Read on to discover the key factors that make a place ideal for living well with Parkinson’s—and why Southwest Florida might be at the top of the list.

​If you or a loved one is living with Parkinson’s disease and taking Levodopa/Carbidopa, you may have noticed that your meals can impact how well your medication works. While this medication is one of the most effective treatments for managing motor symptoms, the foods you eat—and when you eat them—can affect how it’s absorbed in your body. The good news? With a few simple dietary strategies, you can make the most of your treatment and feel more in control. 

Save the Date
The Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) is thrilled to announce its signature annual fundraising event, A Step Forward: Overcoming Obstacles, set for Friday, March 20, 2026, at the luxurious LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort in Naples. This empowering luncheon will feature an extraordinary speaker—Staff Sergeant (Ret.) Johnny “Joey” Jones, a decorated Marine veteran, FOX News contributor, and national advocate for veterans and resilience.

August is National Make-A-Will Month, a timely reminder of the importance of having a legal will in place—regardless of your age or financial situation. Creating or updating your will ensures your loved ones are cared for, your wishes are respected, and your legacy lives on in meaningful ways. It’s also an opportunity to reflect on the causes close to your heart and how you can support them for generations to come. Learn how and why it’s important.

Have you or a loved one noticed a persistent tremor, muscle stiffness, or slowed movement? Maybe it's just aging, or maybe it's something more. If you’ve ever asked, “How is Parkinson’s diagnosed?” — you’re not alone. Many people experiencing early symptoms are unsure of what steps to take next. Understanding the process can help you feel more in control and prepared to take action.
Here’s what you need to know.