First Steps After PARKINSON'S DIAGNOSIS

After a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease, the next steps can feel overwhelming- but taking them one at a time can help.

Allow yourself a moment to process things before making big decisions
Share the news with trusted family, friends, or counselor as the emotional impact is real
If faith is part of your life, consider talking with a religious leader

Talk with your general practitioner about a referral to a neurologist (a doctor who specializes in the brain and nervous system)
Talk with Promotores about how to find a doctor if you do not have one or how your condition may impact your daily life

Learn about the condition, it's symptoms, and ways to manage to help reduce fear
Talk to a doctor about your specific signs and symptoms and how they can provide support for you

Allow family, friends, and community members to provide help with transportation assistance, meal prep, and social support.
Look for local support groups including in person and on-line, community centers, local churches, or other health centers

Medications can help manage motor and non-motor symptoms
Therapies including occupational, physical, and speech can provide guidance, strategies, and training for lifestyle adjustments including issues with mobility, daily living activities like dressing or meal prep, voice and swallowing
Setting up a daily routine with exercise, nutritious meals, and good sleep can help with symptom management

Do meaningful things that can help reduce isolation and protect your well-being
Stay engaged with community activities, church, volunteer work
Set realistic goals and participate in physical activities including exercise classes such as yoga, Tai Chi, Rock Steady Boxing
Engage in cognitive activities including puzzles, games, reading and writing
Practice mindfulness and other calming activities like meditation or breathing exercises

Prepare early to help reduce the stress, maintain independence and have more control over life decisions with family by communicating clearly and early and
Consider current and future housing needs (making it safe: installing grab bars, placing non-slip mats, will stairs become a problem later?)
Share your preferences and goals with your loved ones
Plan for cognitive and physical changes and what your preferences are if decision-making becomes impaired
Plan for long-term care needs like in-home care or adult day programs
Discuss legal matters including power of attorney, advanced directive, and insurance benefits