This year, you showed up with questions. 

Thousands of them. 

In webinars. Through calls to our support line. In conversations with peer mentors. You asked the questions that keep you up at night. Questions about medications. About exercise. About what comes next. Some of you were newly diagnosed. Others had been living with Parkinson’s for years. But every question mattered. Here’s what you wanted to know most and what we learned together. 

When should I start my medications? 

One of the most asked questions. There’s no single answer. What matters: how are your symptoms affecting your life? Some start medication when tremors interfere with work or daily tasks. Others wait if symptoms are mild. The goal isn’t to delay out of fear. It’s to start when medication genuinely improves your quality of life. Talk openly with your neurologist and health care team.

How much exercise do I need? 

Short answer: exercise matters. A lot. 

Research shows it can slow symptom progression and improve how you feel daily. But “how much” depends on you.  Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week. Walking. Cycling. Swimming. Boxing. Dance. Find what works and stick with it. Consistency beats perfection.

How can I exercise if I’m in pain? 

Pain makes movement harder. But movement can help manage pain especially from Parkinson’s. Start small. Try water-based exercises. Work with a physiotherapist who understands Parkinson’s. Even five minutes counts.

When do I know I can’t provide care at home anymore? 

People asked this quietly, like they needed permission. 

So here it is: recognising when care needs to exceed what you can provide isn’t a failure. It’s love. Signs? Your health is suffering. Round-the-clock supervision is needed. You feel unsafe. 

Talk to your health care team. Explore options. Trust yourself.

How do I know if a stem cell therapy or supplements are safe? 

For stem cell therapies: ask if it’s part of a clinical trial. Is it approved? Be cautious of dramatic promises. Talk to your neurologist first. For supplements: They’re not well-regulated. Some might help. Others might interact with medications. Always consult your health care team.

 

What matters most 

These questions matter because they came from you. From real moments of uncertainty. From courage. From hope. Thank you for trusting us with your questions. For showing up. For staying curious.  Have a question we didn’t cover? Connect with our support team or call our support line at 1-800-565-3000. Explore our resources. Connect with a peer mentor. 

We’re here to support. 

This is not medical advice; please always consult with your health care team to make the best decisions for you and your situation.