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Caring for someone with Parkinson's is a journey that can bring unique responsibilities and challenges. As a loved one's needs change over time, the role of a care partner often evolves, too. Finding reliable information, building a support network, and staying connected with others who understand the experience can make a meaningful difference along the way.
Navigating the caregiving journey is an ongoing process, but you don't have to do it alone. Whether you're looking for practical guidance, opportunities to connect with other care partners, or support as you navigate life with Parkinson's, the Parkinson's Foundation offers resources to help you feel informed, supported, and connected.
Parkinson's Care Partner Support at a Glance
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What to know |
Quick overview |
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Parkinson's and caregiving |
Care partner responsibilities and needs can change throughout the Parkinson's journey. |
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Why connection matters |
Research cited by the Parkinson's Foundation indicates that 40% to 70% of care partners experience significant stress. |
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Where to find support |
The Parkinson's Foundation offers 10 resources to help care partners find information, education, and opportunities to connect. |
Why connection matters for Parkinson's care partners?
Research shows that 40% to 70% of care partners experience significant stress, and about half meet the criteria for clinical depression. Building a support network and staying connected socially can help ease this burden.
Friends, family and support groups can offer relief, encouragement and a sense of connection. Sharing caregiving responsibilities and talking openly with others who understand can reduce feelings of isolation, build a sense of belonging can remind you that you’re not alone.
Connection looks different for everyone. Whether it’s joining an in-person exercise class or support group, volunteering with your local Parkinson’s Foundation chapter or participating in virtual events, finding a supportive community can help you feel understood and connected.
10 Parkinson’s care partners resources for support and connection
The Parkinson’s Foundation offers a variety of resources to help care partners find information, build connections and feel supported throughout their Parkinson’s journey.
- Helpline. The Parkinson’s Foundation Helpline is here to answer your Parkinson’s and care partner questions, provide information and connect you with helpful resources. Call 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) or email Helpline@Parkinson.org
- Care Partner Guide. The Foundation's Care Partner Guide offers practical tips and helpful information for care partners at every stage of PD. Explore encouraging insights from other care partners, along with activities, worksheets and resources to support you along the way.
- Podcast. Stay informed and connected to the latest in Parkinson’s care and research through the Substantial Matters: Life and Science of Parkinson’s podcast. Each episode explores PD treatments, research and strategies to help you and your loved one live better every day. Subscribe or listen online.
- My PD Stories. Sometimes, hearing from others who understand PD can make all the difference. Explore My PD Stories to read firsthand experiences from care partners, people living with Parkinson’s and researchers who share their unique perspectives and insights.
- Expert Briefings. Learn from leading Parkinson’s doctors and other experts through the Parkinson Foundation's Expert Briefings webinar series. Explore topics that can help you better understand PD and feel more confident in your caregiving journey.
- PD Library. Parkinson’s knowledge is power! Explore the Foundation’s PD Library for a wide collection of free publications, fact sheets and educational resources to help you stay informed and supported.
- Virtual and In-Person Events. Connect with the Parkinson’s community through virtual and in-person events. From on-demand Fitness Friday exercise sessions to expert-led educational programs, there are opportunities to learn, engage and connect with others. Ready to build your PD community? Find an event near you.
- Parkinson’s Foundation Chapters. This local chapter network connects people living with PD and care partners to resources, programs and support in their communities, including: Support groups, health and wellness classes, and educational programs. Find your local chapter to explore opportunities to connect with others who understand your Parkinson’s journey.
- Care Partner Courses. Build your caregiving knowledge through self-paced online courses. Featuring videos and journal prompts, these courses explore the caregiving topics that matter most to you. Enroll in Care Partner Program: Building a Care Partnership.
- Ask PAM: AI-powered instant answers. Have a Parkinson’s question? Get answers 24-hours a day. Ask PAM (Parkinson’s Assistance Messenger) is a new AI-powered chat tool that gives caregivers instant access to accurate, Parkinson’s Foundation-rooted information. Ask PAM anything.
You are not alone: Support or your Parkinson's caregiving journey
Being a care partner to a loved one with Parkinson’s comes with unique challenges, but finding support and staying connected can make a difference. Whether you are looking for answers, sharing experience or ready to connect with others, the Parkinson’s Foundation is here to help you every step of the way.
For more information and resources, visit Parkinson.org/Caregiving.
