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.

​Is Parkinson's Disease Hereditary?
The short answer is: sometimes, but not always. While Parkinson’s disease can be hereditary, most cases are not directly inherited.

About 10–15% of people with Parkinson’s have a family history of the disease. In these cases, genetic mutations—such as changes in the LRRK2, PARK7, PINK1, PRKN, and SNCA genes—can be passed down from parent to child, potentially increasing the risk of developing PD.

However, the vast majority of Parkinson’s cases are considered sporadic, meaning they occur in people with no known family history or inherited genetic mutation. This suggests that a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors—such as exposure to pesticides or head trauma—may contribute to the development of Parkinson’s.
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In other words, having a relative with Parkinson’s does not guarantee that you will develop the condition, but it may slightly increase your risk. Likewise, many people with Parkinson’s do not have any known genetic link at all.

What Can You Do if Parkinson’s Runs in Your Family?
If you have a family history of Parkinson’s, it’s natural to feel concerned. Fortunately, there are proactive steps you can take:

• Genetic counseling: A genetic counselor can help assess your personal risk and discuss the pros and cons of genetic testing.
• Healthy lifestyle: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and cognitive stimulation may lower your overall risk.
• Stay informed: Being aware of the early signs of Parkinson’s—such as tremors, slowed movement, or stiffness—can lead to earlier diagnosis and better management.

Whether or not your case is hereditary, having a strong support system makes a big difference in living well with Parkinson’s.

PASWFL: Empowering Families and Individuals Living with PD
For more than twenty-five years, the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) has been a trusted community resource for those touched by Parkinson’s disease and related neurological conditions. Their mission is to improve quality of life, educate, enrich, and empower individuals and care partners throughout Southwest Florida.

Each week, PASWFL offers over 25 free programs and support groups to help individuals with PD live well. These include exercise classes, support groups, wellness education, and more. Best of all, there are no fees to join—their mission is fueled by compassion and community, not cost.
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If you or a loved one is living with Parkinson’s, you’re not alone. Support, education, and empowerment are just a click away.

• Click here to sign up for PASWFL’s free e-newsletter
• Click here to become a free member today

To learn more, visit www.parkinsonassociationswfl.org

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.

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological disorder that affects millions of people around the world. But what happens to your body when you have Parkinson’s disease? Understanding the physical and neurological changes caused by PD can help individuals and their loved ones better manage the journey ahead.

When someone is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, one of the first and most pressing questions that often arises is: What is the life expectancy of someone with Parkinson's disease? While Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition, advances in treatment and supportive care have helped many people live long, meaningful lives with the disease.

Parkinson’s disease is most often associated with tremors and movement issues, but many people are surprised to learn that it impacts far more than just motor function. So, what organs does Parkinson disease affect? The answer is that this neurological condition can influence multiple systems and organs in the body—both directly and indirectly—causing a wide range of symptoms that go beyond the familiar tremor or rigidity.

Understanding the underlying causes of neurodegenerative diseases is essential to advancing treatment and improving lives. One question that is commonly asked is: What causes Parkinson disease and Alzheimer’s? These two conditions are among the most prevalent neurological disorders, but while they share some similarities, their causes differ significantly. This blog post will explore the origins of both Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer’s disease, offering insights for those affected or at risk.

Understanding neurological disorders can be complex, especially when terms sound so similar.

One frequently asked question is: What is the difference between Parkinson's and Parkinsonism? While these conditions share many symptoms, they are not the same. Knowing the distinction can be essential for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers navigating diagnosis and treatment.

When people hear about Parkinson’s disease, they often think of tremors and movement challenges. But one of the most important questions to explore is: What organs does Parkinson’s disease affect?
​The answer is broader than many expect. While Parkinson’s primarily impacts the brain, it can have far-reaching effects on multiple organ systems throughout the body

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is one of the most prevalent neurological conditions worldwide, yet many people are surprised to learn just how common it really is. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, supporting a loved one, or simply looking to learn more, understanding how common Parkinson’s disease is can help bring awareness, compassion, and advocacy to those affected.

One of the most common and hopeful questions people ask after a Parkinson’s disease (PD) diagnosis is: How soon will there be a cure for Parkinson’s? It’s a question filled with both optimism and urgency—and one that researchers, clinicians, and people living with PD think about every day.
While we don’t yet have a definitive answer, there is a great deal of progress and promise on the horizon.

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a complex neurological condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While much has been learned about the disease over the past century, one question that still surfaces often is: Is Parkinson's disease caused by a virus?

When discussing Parkinson’s disease (PD), the term basal ganglia often comes up. But what happens to the basal ganglia in Parkinson's, and why is this part of the brain so important?

Understanding the Prevalence and Impact of Parkinson’s Disease
A question that many people ask—especially after a diagnosis or when a loved one begins showing symptoms—is: How common is Parkinson’s? Knowing how widespread the condition is can help put things in perspective and highlight the importance of community support and awareness.

Managing Nutrition to Support Medication and Quality of Life
When managing Parkinson’s disease (PD), medication is crucial—but diet also plays a powerful role. A common question that comes up is: what foods to avoid with Parkinson's disease? While there’s no universal “Parkinson’s diet,” understanding how food interacts with PD symptoms and medications can help maximize the benefits of treatment.

Recognizing Look-Alike Conditions That May Cause Similar Symptoms
When someone experiences symptoms like tremors, stiffness, or slowness of movement, Parkinson’s disease (PD) often comes to mind. But these symptoms are not exclusive to PD. So, what can mimic Parkinson’s disease? The answer may surprise you.
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Understanding these look-alike conditions is crucial for getting the right diagnosis—and the right treatment.

Understanding the Classic Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, and one of the earliest and most recognizable symptoms is known as pill-rolling. But what exactly is pill-rolling, and is it an early sign of Parkinson’s?

Understanding How Parkinson’s Disease Affects Individuals
​​One of the most frequently asked questions we hear is, “How does Parkinson’s disease spread from person to person?” The simple and reassuring answer is...

Understanding the Role of MRI in Diagnosing Parkinson’s Disease
​Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, balance, and coordination. One of the most frequently asked questions when someone begins to experience symptoms like tremors or stiffness is: Can Parkinson’s be detected by MRI?