A Guide for Parkinson’s Care Partners: How to Support Your Loved One (and Yourself)

Being a care partner is a powerful act of love. It’s also one of the toughest roles you’ll ever take on. When someone you love is living with Parkinson’s, you’re not just watching their world change — your world changes too.

The good news? You don’t have to navigate it alone.

This guide is for the caregivers, spouses, children, siblings, and friends who show up daily. It’s packed with encouragement, practical advice, and maybe even a few moments of, "Yes, I’ve felt that too."

Start With Empathy — And Keep It Flowing

Living with Parkinson’s is frustrating. Some days feel like a win, and others feel like molasses. Empathy — the kind that listens without fixing — is a gift.

Ask questions. Listen fully. And don’t underestimate how much a patient hug or silly joke can uplift someone’s day.

Educate Yourself

Understanding Parkinson’s helps you understand what your loved one is going through. Learn about:

• Motor and non-motor symptoms
• Medication side effects and timing
• The role of exercise and therapy
• Parkinson’s stages and progression

Pro tip: Share what you learn, but don’t become the “Parkinson’s Professor” — nobody wants a lecture.

Encourage Movement (Gently)

Exercise is one of the best ways to manage symptoms, but motivation can be tough. Try:

• Suggesting online group classes like those at CFMC (Center for Movement Challenges)
• Making it a team effort: walk together or stretch as a pair
• Keeping it fun and judgment-free

Don’t say: “You should work out.”

Try: “Want to move with me for five minutes and see how it feels?”

Take Care of Yourself, Too

You can’t pour from an empty cup. That’s not just a fridge magnet — it’s science.

Caregiver burnout is real. Protect your energy by:

• Setting boundaries (yes, even with your loved one)
• Taking regular breaks
• Getting enough sleep
• Talking to a therapist or joining a support group

And yes, it’s okay to feel overwhelmed, angry, or sad. Those feelings don’t make you a bad partner — they make you human.

Find Your Team

Support can come from:

• Parkinson’s support groups (for you and your loved one)
• Neurologists and movement disorder specialists
• Exercise professionals trained in Parkinson’s
• Family, friends, and fellow caregivers

You don’t have to do this alone. Seriously.

Little Things That Go a Long Way

• Label medication bottles with big, easy-to-read fonts
• Create a routine to reduce stress and improve sleep
• Celebrate small wins (like buttoning a shirt without help)
• Keep a shared calendar to track appointments and meds

Final Thoughts

Being a Parkinson’s care partner is hard. But it’s also beautiful. It’s a daily act of compassion, creativity, and strength.

Remember: your role matters. Your wellbeing matters. And you are doing better than you think.

So take a breath. Reach out. And give yourself the same care you give so freely to someone else.

You’ve got this — and we’ve got your back.

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