What is Intermittent Support and How Can It Help People with Parkinson’s?

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.

What is Intermittent Support?
Intermittent support is assistance that’s provided on an as-needed basis, rather than continuously. For people with Parkinson’s disease, this might mean having someone check in once a week, joining a fitness or speech therapy class when symptoms flare, or attending support groups during emotionally difficult periods.

The goal is to fill in the gaps — providing help at specific moments when it’s most beneficial. This could be:

• Physical support during times when movement symptoms worsen.
• Speech support for communication challenges.
• Emotional support during times of stress, anxiety, or depression.
• Practical support for tasks that have become temporarily difficult, such as cooking, driving, or managing medications.

Why Intermittent Support Works for Parkinson’s
Parkinson’s symptoms often fluctuate, and needs can change from day to day. Some days are more manageable, while others can be more physically or emotionally demanding. Intermittent support respects this variability, offering a flexible safety net without taking away independence.

It’s also highly customizable — it could be a neighbor dropping off groceries, a care partner assisting during medical appointments, or participating in a specialized exercise program once or twice a week. This approach helps people conserve their energy for what matters most: living well.

A Community-Based Approach
Organizations like the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) make intermittent support more accessible by offering a variety of programs that individuals can join when they choose.
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​This helps create a rhythm of support that fits into each person’s lifestyle, rather than forcing a one-size-fits-all approach.

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 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.

Each week, PASWFL offers more than 25 free programs and support groups, 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.
👉 Click here to sign up for the PASWFL newsletter
👉 Click here to become a member (it's free!)
To learn more, visit www.paswfl.org and discover the power of support, education, and community.