How to Treat Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological condition, but it is also highly treatable. While there is currently no cure, modern treatment options can significantly reduce symptoms, slow functional decline, and improve quality of life. The most effective Parkinson’s care plans are personalized and often involve a combination of medication, therapy, lifestyle strategies, and strong community support.
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Understanding today’s treatment options can help individuals with Parkinson’s take an active role in living well.

1. The Foundation of Parkinson’s Treatment: Medication
Medications are the primary treatment for Parkinson’s disease and work by improving dopamine levels or mimicking dopamine’s effects in the brain.

Common Parkinson’s medications include:

• Levodopa (often combined with carbidopa): The most effective treatment for motor symptoms such as tremor, stiffness, and slowness.
• Dopamine agonists: Mimic dopamine effects and may be used alone or with levodopa.
• MAO-B inhibitors: Help prevent dopamine breakdown in the brain.
• COMT inhibitors: Extend the effectiveness of levodopa.

Medication regimens are often adjusted over time as symptoms evolve. Regular communication with a movement-disorder specialist is essential to optimize results and minimize side effects.

2. Therapies That Improve Function and Independence
Non-medication therapies play a critical role in Parkinson’s care and are often started early in the disease process.
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Key therapies include:

• Physical therapy: Improves balance, flexibility, posture, and walking.
• Occupational therapy: Helps maintain independence with daily activities.
• Speech therapy: Addresses speech volume, clarity, and swallowing difficulties.
• Exercise programs: Evidence shows regular exercise can slow symptom progression and improve mobility and mood.

Consistent participation in therapy programs can dramatically enhance long-term outcomes.

3. Advanced Treatment Options
For individuals whose symptoms are no longer well-controlled with medication alone, advanced therapies may be considered.
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These include:

• Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): A surgical option that helps control motor symptoms and reduce medication fluctuations.
• Infusion therapies: Deliver medication continuously for more stable symptom control.

These treatments are not right for everyone, but they can be life-changing for selected individuals.


4. The Importance of Mental and Emotional Health
Parkinson’s affects more than movement. Depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and cognitive changes are common and treatable aspects of PD. Counseling, support groups, and education are essential components of comprehensive care.

Why Support Matters:
A diagnosis of any form of Parkinson’s can feel overwhelming. But with the right support and resources, individuals can maintain independence, quality of life, and emotional well-being.

For resources, referrals, and support in navigating Parkinson’s and related conditions, contact the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) at www.paswfl.org or call 239-417-3465.
For over 25 years, PASWFL has provided free, high-quality services and programs to individuals and families touched by Parkinson’s disease in Southwest Florida. Their goal is simple: help people live well with PD, regardless of where they are in their journey.
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Each week, PASWFL offers more than 25 free programs, including:

• Wellness and fitness classes
• Speech exercise classes
• Educational seminars
• Support for care partners
• Support groups

There are no fees to become a member, and PASWFL welcomes anyone touched by PD.

Take the First Step Toward Living Well
If you suspect early Parkinson’s or have been recently diagnosed, you don’t have to face it alone.
👉 Sign up for the PASWFL newsletter: https://parkinsonassociationswfl.org/signup-enews.html
👉 Become a free, confidential member: https://parkinsonassociationswfl.org/signup.html
To learn more, visit www.paswfl.org and discover the power of support, education, and community.