In the landscape of disability rights and advocacy, one significant piece of legislation stands out for its powerful message and lasting impact--Rosa’s Law. But why is Rosa’s Law so important? The answer lies not just in what the law changes on paper, but in how it reshapes societal attitudes and affirms the dignity of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

​Why Is Rosa’s Law So Important?
Rosa’s Law, passed in 2010, required the removal of the term “mental retardation” from federal health, education, and labor policy, replacing it with the more respectful and appropriate phrase “individual with an intellectual disability.” Named after Rosa Marcellino, a young girl with Down syndrome who, with her family, advocated for this change, the law marked a turning point in how language shapes perception.
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Here’s why Rosa’s Law matters so deeply:

• Language Reflects Respect
  Words carry weight. The outdated term “mental retardation” had become a slur, often used in derogatory or mocking ways. By replacing it with “intellectual disability,” Rosa’s Law helped affirm the humanity and worth of individuals who had too long been spoken about in stigmatizing terms.
• It Sets a Precedent for Inclusion
  The law wasn’t just a linguistic update—it was a declaration that people with disabilities deserve to be seen and described with dignity. This change paved the way for more inclusive language in both public policy and everyday life.
• It Was a Victory Driven by Youth and Family
  Rosa’s Law is a powerful example of how advocacy, even from a young person and their family, can lead to national legislative change. It continues to inspire other families and communities to speak up for respect and rights.
• It Promotes Awareness and Sensitivity
  Beyond policy, Rosa’s Law opened doors to deeper conversations about how we treat individuals with disabilities—in schools, workplaces, healthcare, and media. Awareness is the first step toward real inclusion.

​Empowering Communities Through Advocacy and Support
Organizations like the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) reflect the same spirit of advocacy and support that Rosa’s Law represents. While Parkinson’s disease is different from intellectual disabilities, both communities face challenges related to dignity, quality of life, and public understanding.

For over twenty-five years, PASWFL has provided effective programs and services that improve the quality of life, educate, enrich, and empower our Southwest Floridians touched by Parkinson’s disease and related neurological conditions.

Each week, PASWFL offers more than 25 free programs and support groups for individuals with Parkinson’s and their care partners. These include movement classes, educational workshops, wellness programs, and more.

There are no fees to become a member. You can join or learn more through their website at www.parkinsonassociationswfl.org
👉 Click here to sign up for their newsletter
👉 Click here to become a free member today

Respect begins with language—and with action. Rosa’s Law reminds us that even a single word change can be a giant leap forward for equality.

One of the most common and pressing questions for those affected by Parkinson’s disease (PD) is: Why is there no cure for Parkinson's disease? Despite decades of research, scientific advances, and new treatments, a definitive cure for this complex neurological condition remains elusive. Understanding why can offer clarity—and hope—for ongoing progress.

Bradykinesia literally means “slow movement,” but the condition goes beyond just moving slowly. It involves a general slowness of voluntary movement and a noticeable reduction in automatic movements. People with bradykinesia often feel like their body is not responding as quickly as their mind expects.

Tremors are one of the most recognized symptoms associated with neurological conditions, but not all tremors are the same. A common question many people ask is: What is the difference between Parkinson’s and essential tremors? While both involve involuntary shaking, especially in the hands, they are distinct in their causes, symptoms, and treatments.

Parkinson’s disease is the most well-known form of parkinsonism, but it’s not the only one. A less commonly discussed but equally important condition is secondary parkinsonism. So, what causes secondary parkinsonism, and how is it different from primary Parkinson’s disease?

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that primarily affects movement, but can also impact mood, cognition, and other non-motor functions. A common and hopeful question many patients and families ask is: Can Parkinson’s go into remission?

Understanding the nature of the disease and what remission means in this context is key to managing expectations and exploring strategies for better quality of life.

When it comes to neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease, people often wonder about the role of lifestyle factors in the development or progression of the condition. One of the most commonly asked questions is: Can stress cause Parkinson’s?

​While stress is known to impact overall health in many ways, its direct link to causing Parkinson’s disease is still being explored

Can Stress Cause Parkinson’s?
To answer this question directly: There is no scientific evidence that stress causes Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s is a neurodegenerative disorder primarily caused by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain, particularly in an area called the substantia nigra. The exact reason why these neurons deteriorate is still unclear, but genetics and environmental factors are believed to play a role.

That said, stress can play a significant role in how Parkinson’s symptoms are experienced and managed. People living with Parkinson’s often report that their symptoms—such as tremors, stiffness, and anxiety—worsen during periods of emotional or physical stress. Chronic stress can impact brain health and exacerbate inflammation, which may influence disease progression, though it is not a proven cause.
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In animal studies, chronic stress has been shown to affect dopamine levels and increase vulnerability in dopamine-producing neurons. While this does not prove causation in humans, it suggests that managing stress is still an essential aspect of living well with Parkinson’s disease.

Managing Stress and Parkinson’s Disease
Although stress doesn't cause Parkinson’s, managing stress effectively is crucial for people with Parkinson’s. Stress can aggravate motor and non-motor symptoms, increase fatigue, disrupt sleep, and affect overall quality of life. That’s why building strong support systems, incorporating physical activity, mindfulness, and staying socially connected are so important.

This is where organizations like the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) make a tremendous impact. For more than 25 years, PASWFL has offered free programs and services that improve quality of life and empower individuals and families affected by Parkinson’s and related neurological diseases.

Each week, PASWFL provides:

• Over 25 free support groups and wellness programs
• Resources for managing symptoms and reducing stress
• Opportunities for connection and education for both individuals with PD and their care partners

Their services are completely free, and becoming a member is simple and accessible. Whether it’s through movement classes, support sessions, or mindfulness programs, PASWFL offers meaningful tools for reducing stress and enhancing well-being.
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Join the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida Community
If you or a loved one is living with Parkinson’s disease in Southwest Florida, consider joining PASWFL’s supportive community. Together, you can take steps to manage stress and live well with Parkinson’s.

• Click here to sign up for the PASWFL newsletter.
• Click here to become a member for free today.

For more information, visit www.parkinsonassociationswfl.org.

A Parkinson’s diagnosis can bring up many questions, but one of the most common—and most personal—is: How long can you live with Parkinson’s disease? It’s a question rooted in concern, hope, and the need for clarity.
​Thankfully, with early detection, proper treatment, and supportive care, many people with Parkinson’s live full and meaningful lives for many years after diagnosis.

When managing Parkinson’s disease, medications like levodopa/carbidopa (often known by the brand name Sinemet) are critical in controlling symptoms. But did you know that what you eat can significantly affect how well these medications work?

​One of the most frequently asked questions by people living with Parkinson’s is: What foods should you eat with levodopa carbidopa? Understanding the answer can make a real difference in symptom control and overall well-being.

In recent years, several new drugs have gained attention for their ability to manage Parkinson’s symptoms more effectively or to address underlying causes of the disease. One of the newest FDA-approved drugs is istradefylline (Nourianz), a novel add-on treatment that targets the brain’s adenosine A2A receptors. It's used in combination with levodopa/carbidopa to help reduce “off” episodes — times when medication effects wear off and symptoms return.

Is There an Alternative to Sinemet?
Yes, there are several alternatives to Sinemet, including other medications and treatment strategies. While Sinemet remains the “gold standard” for treating Parkinson’s symptoms, it is not the only option. The best alternative depends on each person’s specific needs, stage of disease, and response to treatment

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is widely known for its progressive nature, causing symptoms like tremors, muscle stiffness, and difficulty with movement. However, many people newly diagnosed or concerned about symptoms often ask, “Is there a mild form of Parkinson’s?”
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The answer is yes—Parkinson’s can begin with mild symptoms that may remain manageable for a significant period, especially with early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and strong support systems.

When symptoms like tremors, stiffness, or slowed movement arise, many people wonder: How is Parkinson’s disease diagnosed? Unlike some medical conditions that can be confirmed with a single blood test or scan, diagnosing Parkinson’s disease (PD) involves a combination of clinical evaluations, medical history, and observation.

​The process can be both challenging and detailed, as early symptoms may be subtle or overlap with other neurological conditions

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a complex neurological condition that often presents with a range of symptoms, including tremors, stiffness, slow movement, and balance problems. But what can Parkinson disease be mistaken for?
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​Due to the overlapping symptoms with other disorders, it’s not uncommon for PD to be misdiagnosed, especially in the early stages. Understanding these potential misdiagnoses is important for ensuring accurate treatment and support.

When managing Parkinson’s disease (PD), medication, exercise, and supportive therapies are all crucial elements. However, many individuals also explore nutritional supplements to support brain health and possibly ease symptoms.
​So, what supplements are good for Parkinson’s? While supplements are not a cure, certain nutrients may complement medical treatment and help improve quality of life.

Parkinson’s disease is often described as a neurological disorder that affects movement, but the root of the condition lies deeper—within the complex world of brain chemistry. A key player in this process is dopamine, a chemical messenger that helps control muscle movement, mood, and motivation.
So, the question many people ask is: What does dopamine do in Parkinson’s? The answer is both fascinating and essential to understanding how the disease affects the body and mind.

​Parkinson’s disease is most commonly associated with older adults, but one question that often arises is: “What is the youngest age for Parkinson’s disease?”
​While age is one of the major risk factors, Parkinson’s is not limited to the elderly. It can, in fact, affect much younger individuals—even those under the age of 50.

When someone hears the term "Parkinson’s disease," it may seem like a single, uniform condition. However, the question “Are there two different types of Parkinson’s disease?” often arises, especially as individuals begin to learn more about how it affects people differently.
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While Parkinson’s disease (PD) itself is classified as a single diagnosis, there are two primary clinical types based on symptoms, which can lead to very different experiences for patients.

When someone is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, one of the first questions that often arises is: “What is the best medication for Parkinson’s disease?” While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, understanding the most effective medications and how they work can help individuals with Parkinson’s and their care partners make informed decisions.

When it comes to neurological disorders, terms can often be confusing—especially when they sound so similar. One of the most frequently asked questions is: “What is the difference between Parkinson's disease and Parkinson's syndrome?” While both involve similar symptoms, understanding the distinction is key to accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and better long-term outcomes.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurological condition that affects millions of people worldwide. One common and important question asked by those newly diagnosed—or those with a family history of the disease—is: "Is Parkinson's disease hereditary?" Understanding the role genetics plays in PD can help individuals and families better navigate risks, treatments, and support options.

In the context of healthcare, caregiving, and chronic illness management, the term pervasive support often arises—but what does it truly mean? Understanding the concept of pervasive support can shine a light on why continuous, comprehensive assistance is vital for those navigating long-term conditions like Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Exercise plays a crucial role in managing Parkinson’s disease (PD), helping to maintain mobility, improve mood, and enhance overall quality of life. But what is the best exercise for Parkinson’s disease? While there’s no single solution that fits everyone, research and patient experience suggest that a mix of targeted physical activity tailored to the needs of those with PD offers the greatest benefit.

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is one of the most prevalent neurological disorders in the world, yet many people are surprised to learn just how widespread it is. So, how common is Parkinson’s? The answer reveals the significance of awareness, early detection, and community support for those affected.