Spring / Summer 2020 | Living with Parkinson’s
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For more resources, visit
MJFF’s COVID-19 Information
hub at michaeljfox.org/
virtualresources.
smartphone apps.) Just as there are many
different types of physical exercise, there
are many different types of meditation. You
may have to try a few before you find the
best one for you.
Stay Active
Exercise is critical for easing Parkinson’s
movement symptoms and for boosting
mood. While at home, you may have to
adjust usual workouts or learn new ones.
You can exercise with online programs
(look for ones that are Parkinson’sspecific
or match your fitness level), go
for a walk outside (being careful of social
distancing), or, if you have a physical
therapist or personal trainer, schedule a
virtual session.
Staying Active:
Rock Steady Boxing
recently launched a
new video series to
provide simple, safe
ways to keep the
community moving.
Talk to your
physician /physical
therapist about
exercises you can
do on your own,
appropriate online
classes, or ways to
connect virtually.
Maintain Social Ties
Parkinson’s can feel isolating and social
distancing can amplify those feelings. But
technology offers many ways to connect with
loved ones and friends in the Parkinson’s
community. Have weekly chats with your
children or grandchildren (try Zoom,
FaceTime, Skype or even the telephone if
that’s easiest); schedule a virtual coffee
break, cocktail hour or knitting date with a
friend; or join an online support group, book
club or sing-a-long.
Continue Usual Medical Care
This is a time of high stress and anxiety, which
can worsen symptoms. Stay on top of your
regular medication schedule, make sure you
have a one- to three-month prescription supply
on hand and get medications delivered. (Ask
a local pharmacy, volunteer organization or
friend to help.) Talk with your doctor if you
notice new or changing symptoms.
Many clinicians now offer telemedicine visits, in
which you have an appointment from home via
your smartphone or computer. If you need an
in-person visit, discuss the best time to go and
ways to minimize risk. For those who give or
get in-home care, create a hygiene station (with
hand sanitizer, gloves and masks at the door
and bedside, for example) and be vigilant about
handwashing, mask-wearing and disinfecting.