Start 2024 Strong with These Parkinson’s-Focused New Year’s Resolutions

Start 2024 off strong! Living with or caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s disease (PD) can change the way you look at new year’s resolutions, which is why we put together this list of goals that can help benefit different aspects of life.

For the Person Newly Diagnosed Person with Parkinson’s

• Find the resources that work for you. Access the resources that align with your learning style — from our PD Library, to our podcast to familiarizing yourself with Parkinson.org.
• Establish an exercise routine. Exercise (such as yoga, walking or swimming) can help improve flexibility and mobility and reduce muscle and joint pain. Find the workout that works for you through our virtual Fitness Friday exercise classes.
• Start building your PD community. On the social front, start exploring support groups, online groups or forums and find your Parkinson’s Foundation chapter. It takes time to build your PD support system, why not start this year? 
• Build your care team. A movement disorders specialist or neurologist is key to helping manage symptoms from the beginning. Start building your care team and ask for referrals for specialists who can help along the way — from a physical therapist to nutritionist.

For the Person Living with Parkinson’s

• Find your community. There is no break from Parkinson’s. Finding the right support group or exercise class can fight isolation. Contact our Helpline at 1-800-473-4636 or Helpline@Parkinson.org to find an exercise class or support group near you.
• Write your PD Story. Not only can writing help boost your brain and memory, but your story can also inspire others. Explore My PD Stories, and when you’re ready, submit yours.
• Prioritize self-care. With a myriad of symptoms that can impact mental health, try something new to help serve your mental health. Try a new type of complementary therapy (like a massage), start journaling or visit a new park.
• Become a Parkinson’s Ambassador. Ready to help spread Parkinson’s awareness? Explore the many ways you can volunteer and find the opportunity that works best for you.

For the Care Partner

• Schedule time for yourself. Regular breaks from caregiving are essential to balance. Take an hour daily, an afternoon weekly or a day monthly — whatever you can manage. Explore more ideas in Caring for the Care Partner.
• Plan for the future. While not an easy resolution, aim to get your plans in order and start bringing up the more complicated conversations. Our Planning Ahead article breaks down planning into sections.
• Try a new care partner resource. From care partner support groups to a PD exercise class, you can do with your spouse, find a new resource to take advantage of this year.
• Ask for help. Make this the year you don’t take everything on yourself. Schedule time for loved ones or friends to come over and leave the house for a few hours for yourself.

For Everyone in the Parkinson’s Community

• Attend one new event this year. We host in-person and virtual events year-round. Check out upcoming Moving Day, A Walk for Parkinson’s, events and others. Explore events now.
• Plan a date with your loved one. Find a day this year to help your loved one with PD. From taking them to a movie or bringing a meal over to give the care partner a few hours off, spending time together can help in more ways than one. Learn more about Caring From Afar.
• Volunteer. Help make life better for people with Parkinson’s. Tell us your skills and interests in our volunteer interest form and we’ll reach out!
• More ways to give. From helping us advance critical research to funding life-changing wellness programs in local communities, there are many ways to give to the Parkinson’s Foundation.

Overwhelmed? Not sure what Parkinson’s resources can help you? Call our Helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) for referrals and help finding local wellness and exercise classes