Tools for everyday Parkinson’s conversations

Parkinson’s can affect everyday interactions in ways that aren’t always visible.

These free communication tools can help you let others know when you may need a little extra time, patience or support.

Save the wallpaper to your phone as a discreet way to share that you live with Parkinson’s. When you choose to show your screen, it can help others understand why you may need extra time, patience or support.

iPhone mockup of the antistigma campaign.

Explaining that you live with Parkinson’s isn’t always easy. Sometimes you may choose to share that information. Other times, you may simply want a quick, discreet way to help others understand why you need a little more time or patience.

However you choose to share your diagnosis, you don’t have to do it alone—and these tools can help make that first step a little easier.

These free communication tools are designed for everyday moments, whether you’re paying at a checkout, boarding public transit or asking for assistance. They won’t change every interaction, but they can help create moments of understanding that make everyday life a little easier.

More support

Learn how to tell people about Parkinson’s

Learn how to talk about Parkinson’s >>

Printed Parkinson’s identifier cards and other awareness materials are often available at Parkinson Canada events across the country.

Find an event near you >>

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Learn about Parkinson’s stigma

The physical symptoms of Parkinson’s—tremors, stooped posture, a slower pace—don’t always match what people expect to see, and that gap is often where stigma starts. It can show up as impatience at a checkout, assumptions about mood or independence, or a workplace that isn’t equipped to accommodate changing needs.

Understanding where stigma comes from is often the first step to facing it, whether through self-education, connecting with others who understand, and having the tools to help the people around you understand your experience too.

Not living with Parkinson’s yourself, but want to understand it better? These resources can help you support the people in your life who are.

Parkinson’s: An introductory guide

The basics of Parkinson’s, for anyone just starting to learn

Care partnering: Managing Parkinson’s together

Practical guidance for those supporting someone with Parkinson’s

Every Victory Counts® Canadian Edition

Parkinson Canada’s comprehensive guide to living with the disease

Stay connected with the Parkinson’s community—get the latest research, resources and events delivered right to your inbox.

Your experience can help guide what comes next

These tools were created to support everyday communication and understanding. If you’ve used them—or have ideas for other tools that could help—we’d love your feedback. Your input will help shape future resources for people living with Parkinson’s and those who support them.