​As we grow older, it's natural to notice changes in our bodies. Maybe you move a little slower, have occasional stiffness, or find it takes longer to learn new technology. But when do these changes go beyond normal aging and become signs of Parkinson’s disease?

Many people dismiss early Parkinson’s symptoms as simply “getting older,” which can delay diagnosis and treatment. Understanding the key differences between normal aging and Parkinson’s disease can help individuals recognize warning signs early and seek appropriate medical care when needed.

A groundbreaking study published in "Nature Medicine" suggests that adaptive deep brain stimulation (aDBS) may do exactly that. Researchers found that a personalized form of DBS that responds to brain activity during walking improved gait patterns and reduced falls in people living with Parkinson’s disease.

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has been used for years to help manage tremors, stiffness and other motor symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease. Traditional DBS systems provide continuous stimulation at a fixed setting. While effective for many symptoms, they have often been less successful in treating walking difficulties and freezing of gait. Read more about this study.

A Parkinson’s disease diagnosis often raises many questions about the future. One of the most common concerns individuals and families have is understanding what to expect as Parkinson’s disease progresses. While Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition, it is important to remember that no two people experience the disease in exactly the same way.

The good news is that many people with Parkinson’s continue to live active, meaningful lives for years after diagnosis. Advances in treatment, exercise programs, therapies, and support services have significantly improved quality of life. Understanding the stages of progression can help individuals and care partners prepare, adapt, and take proactive steps to manage symptoms effectively.

For many people living with Parkinson’s disease, freezing of gait can be one of the most frustrating and dangerous symptoms. During a freezing episode, a person may suddenly feel as though their feet are glued to the floor, making it difficult or impossible to take the next step. These episodes can increase the risk of falls, injuries and loss of independence.

What if doctors could identify the warning signs of freezing before it happens? Keep reading to learn more.

Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease are two of the most common neurodegenerative disorders affecting older adults. Because both conditions impact the brain and can cause changes in memory, thinking, and daily functioning, many people wonder whether there is a connection between them.
Could Parkinson’s disease increase the risk of cognitive decline? And if someone has Parkinson’s, does that mean they will develop Alzheimer’s disease? The relationship between these two conditions is more complex than many people realize. Understanding the similarities and differences can help individuals and families better navigate diagnosis, treatment, and long-term care planning.

For many people living with Parkinson’s disease, walking can become increasingly difficult. Changes in gait, shorter strides, reduced arm swing and balance challenges can affect independence and quality of life. Now, exciting new research from the University of Florida suggests that something as simple as listening to music may help improve movement in people with Parkinson’s disease. Keep reading to learn more.

Sleep is essential for physical health, brain function, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life. Yet for many people living with Parkinson’s disease, getting a good night’s sleep can become increasingly difficult. In fact, sleep disturbances are among the most common non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and can significantly affect daily functioning.

What if some of the fatigue, brain fog, mood changes, or worsening Parkinson’s symptoms you experience during the day actually begin at night? Understanding how Parkinson’s affects sleep—and learning strategies that may improve rest—can help individuals take meaningful steps toward better health, energy, and quality of life.

As researchers continue to search for better treatments—and ultimately a cure—for Parkinson’s disease, clinical trials play a critical role in advancing medical knowledge. Clinical trials allow scientists to evaluate new medications, therapies, medical devices, and treatment approaches that may improve the lives of people living with Parkinson’s disease.
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What many people don't realize is that participating in a clinical trial may provide access to promising new therapies years before they become widely available. Clinical trials also give individuals an opportunity to contribute to research that could benefit future generations. If you're interested in learning about Parkinson’s clinical trials, understanding where to look and what to expect is the first step.

Living with Parkinson’s disease can present daily challenges, but research continues to show that movement is one of the most powerful tools available for maintaining mobility, independence, and quality of life. That’s why the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) is excited to introduce a new program designed to help people living with Parkinson’s stay active, connected, and engaged.

What if exercise didn’t feel like exercise? What if movement could improve balance, strength, confidence, and emotional well-being while bringing joy and creativity into your day? That’s exactly what the new Rhythm & Motion for Parkinson’s class is designed to do.

How and Why Is Sleep Affected by Parkinson’s Disease—and What Can Help?
Sleep is essential for physical health, brain function, emotional well-being, and quality of life. Yet for many people living with Parkinson’s disease, getting a good night’s sleep can become increasingly difficult. In fact, sleep disturbances are among the most common non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and can affect individuals at any stage of the condition.
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What many people don't realize is that sleep problems can sometimes appear years before a Parkinson’s diagnosis. From insomnia and vivid dreams to restless nights and daytime fatigue, Parkinson’s can affect nearly every aspect of sleep. Understanding why these changes occur—and what can help—can make a meaningful difference in daily life and overall well-being.

Parkinson's disease affects much more than movement. Changes in speech, swallowing, drooling, and communication can significantly impact daily life for both individuals living with Parkinson's and their care partners. The good news is that there are proven strategies that can help improve comfort, confidence, and quality of life.

What if a few simple techniques could help you communicate more clearly, eat more comfortably, and strengthen connections with the people who matter most? Keep reading to learn about two free Parkinson's education programs designed to provide practical tools and expert guidance.

Can Stress Make Parkinson’s Symptoms Worse?
Living with Parkinson’s disease can bring many physical and emotional challenges. From managing symptoms to navigating daily routines, individuals with Parkinson’s often experience situations that can increase stress levels. A common question among people living with Parkinson’s and their care partners is whether stress can actually make symptoms worse.

The answer is yes—stress can temporarily worsen many Parkinson’s symptoms. While stress does not cause Parkinson’s disease, it can affect how symptoms are experienced from day to day. Understanding this connection can help individuals develop strategies to better manage both their emotional well-being and their physical health.

One of the most common questions people ask after a Parkinson’s diagnosis is whether the disease runs in families. If a parent, sibling, or close relative has Parkinson’s disease, it is natural to wonder if other family members are at increased risk. While genetics can play a role in some cases, the answer is more complex than a simple yes or no.
The good news is that most people diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease do not have a strong family history of the condition. Researchers believe Parkinson’s develops through a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Understanding the role of heredity can help individuals and families better understand their risks and make informed healthcare decisions.

Southwest Florida is one of the highest-prevalence regions for Parkinson’s disease in the United States. While Parkinson’s disease affects approximately 1.1 million Americans overall, its impact is especially concentrated in aging communities like Lee, Collier, Charlotte, and Sarasota counties.

Because Parkinson’s disease primarily affects older adults, about 90% of individuals with the condition are covered by Medicare. This makes Medicare-based data a strong indicator of local prevalence and service needs. Keep reading to see the numbers.

Can Parkinson’s Disease Cause Depression or Anxiety?
​Parkinson’s disease is often thought of as a movement disorder, known for symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and slowed movement. However, Parkinson’s also affects mental and emotional health. Many individuals living with Parkinson’s disease experience depression, anxiety, or other mood-related symptoms at some point during their journey.
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What surprises many people is that depression and anxiety are not simply emotional reactions to a diagnosis—they can actually be direct symptoms of Parkinson’s disease itself. Changes in brain chemistry linked to Parkinson’s may affect mood, motivation, stress levels, and emotional well-being long before movement symptoms even appear. Keep reading to learn how Parkinson’s disease impacts mental health and what treatments and support can help.

Parkinson’s disease is often associated with tremors, but many individuals experience another common symptom that can significantly affect daily life: rigidity. Parkinson’s rigidity refers to muscle stiffness and tightness that can make movement more difficult, uncomfortable, and tiring. Understanding what Parkinson’s rigidity feels like can help individuals recognize symptoms earlier and seek appropriate medical care and support.

For many people, Parkinson’s rigidity feels more than simple stiffness. It can feel like the body refuses to move naturally, with muscles becoming tight, heavy, achy, or resistant to movement. Tasks that once felt automatic—getting out of bed, walking, turning, or even swinging the arms--may suddenly require more effort. Keep reading to learn how rigidity affects the body and what can help manage this challenging Parkinson’s symptom.

Vermont has become the first state in the nation to ban the herbicide paraquat, marking a major milestone in public health and Parkinson’s disease advocacy. The move comes after growing scientific concern linking long-term paraquat exposure to an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease (PD), a progressive neurological disorder affecting movement, balance, and quality of life.
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Could a common agricultural chemical be contributing to Parkinson’s disease risk?

Exercise is increasingly recognized as one of the most powerful tools for people living with Parkinson’s disease. Research continues to show that movement does more than strengthen muscles—it can actually help the brain form new connections and improve function through a process called neuroplasticity.

What if one of the most effective ways to support brain health with Parkinson’s wasn’t found in a prescription bottle—but through movement itself? Discover how exercise may help the brain adapt, improve balance and coordination, and support better quality of life at PASWFL’s upcoming FREE PD Talk. (Click to read more)

What Are the First Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease often begins with subtle symptoms that can easily be mistaken for normal aging, stress, or other health conditions. Because symptoms usually develop gradually, many people may not recognize the early warning signs right away. Understanding the first symptoms of Parkinson’s disease can help individuals seek medical evaluation earlier and begin managing symptoms sooner.

The earliest signs of Parkinson’s disease are not always dramatic tremors. In fact, some of the first symptoms may include changes in handwriting, sleep, movement, facial expression, or even sense of smell. Keep reading to learn the most common early warning signs of Parkinson’s disease and when it may be time to speak with a doctor.

How Fast Does Parkinson’s Disease Progress?
One of the most common questions people ask after a Parkinson’s diagnosis is, “How fast does Parkinson’s disease progress?” The answer can vary widely from person to person. Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition, but the speed and severity of progression are different for every individual. Some people experience slow changes over many years, while others may notice symptoms advancing more quickly.

The good news is that Parkinson’s disease often progresses gradually—and many people continue living active, meaningful lives for years after diagnosis. Understanding what influences progression and what symptoms to expect can help individuals and families feel more prepared, informed, and empowered for the journey ahead.

Does Parkinson’s Disease Cause Dementia?
Understanding Cognitive Changes in Parkinson’sParkinson’s disease is most commonly known for movement-related symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and slowed movement. However, many people are surprised to learn that Parkinson’s can also affect thinking, memory, and cognitive function over time. Understanding the connection between Parkinson’s disease and dementia can help individuals and families recognize symptoms early and seek the right support.

Memory changes with Parkinson’s disease are often misunderstood—and they don’t look the same for everyone. Some people experience mild cognitive challenges, while others may develop more significant symptoms later in the disease. Keep reading to learn what Parkinson’s dementia is, what symptoms to watch for, and how support and treatment can help improve quality of life.

Movement, music, balance, confidence, connection--what if a Parkinson’s class could feel less like therapy and more like joy? The Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) is introducing a new program designed to do exactly that with its FREE PD Talk and sample class: “Intro to Rhythm and Motion for PD” presented by Mitzi Montgomery on May 20, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. via Zoom.

What if movement could help reawaken confidence, improve balance, and reconnect people living with Parkinson’s to joy and creativity? That’s exactly the idea behind Rhythm and Motion for PD—and participants will get to experience it firsthand during this free online event. Keep reading to learn more.

Designer handbags, sparkling jewelry, champagne, raffles, delicious cuisine, and the excitement of bingo all come together for one of Naples’ most anticipated annual charity events. The Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) invites the community to join them for Bingo for Bags & Baubles on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at Vineyards Country Club in Naples.

But this isn’t your average bingo night. Keep reading to learn more.

Stories of Strength: Living Well with Parkinson’s in Southwest Florida
A Parkinson’s diagnosis can bring uncertainty, fear, and many questions about the future. Yet across Southwest Florida, individuals and families affected by Parkinson’s disease continue to show incredible resilience, determination, and hope. Through support, education, wellness programs, and community connection, many people are finding ways to live active and meaningful lives despite the challenges of Parkinson’s.
Behind every Parkinson’s diagnosis is a story of courage. From rediscovering confidence through fitness classes to building lifelong friendships in support groups, people in Southwest Florida are proving that life with Parkinson’s can still be filled with purpose, strength, and connection. Keep reading to discover how community support is helping individuals live well with PD.

Nutrition Tips for Managing Parkinson’s Symptoms
Nutrition plays an important role in overall health, but for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease, the right dietary habits may also help support energy, digestion, medication effectiveness, and daily well-being. While there is no specific “Parkinson’s diet,” healthy nutrition choices can help people better manage symptoms and maintain quality of life.

What you eat may have a bigger impact on Parkinson’s symptoms than many people realize. From improving digestion to helping medications work more effectively, simple nutrition strategies could make daily life easier and more manageable. Keep reading to learn practical tips that support brain and body health with Parkinson’s disease.