Other treatments can help with Parkinson’s symptoms, make daily activities easier, and improve quality of life.
Support and Education
Support groups can help people with Parkinson’s and their families connect with others, share experiences, and learn more about the disease.
Regular Exercise
Exercise can help people with Parkinson’s move better and stay flexible. It can also help prevent problems like joint pain.
Exercise also helps improve mood. People can feel more confident and more in control of their disease.
Before starting or changing an exercise routine, people with Parkinson’s should talk to their healthcare provider. A physical therapist can help create an exercise plan that fits the person’s needs and abilities.
Physical Therapy
Older adults can benefit from physical therapy to help manage movement symptoms. Physical therapists can help people with Parkinson’s:
- Build muscle strength
- Improve range of motion
- Improve balance
- Manage symptoms like tremor, stiffness, and “freezing”
- Walk more safely or use a cane or walker when needed, to help prevent falls
Occupational Therapy
An occupational therapist can help people with Parkinson’s do their daily activities more safely and comfortably.
Often, occupational therapists visit the home to look for ways to make it safer. This may include adding handrails and grab bars to help prevent falls.
Some occupational therapists can also check a person’s driving skills to see if the disease is affecting their safety on the road.
Speech Therapy
A speech therapist can help with swallowing problems and suggest changes to diet when needed.
Speech therapists can also help people speak more clearly and easily.
Nutrition
People with Parkinson’s do not need a special diet. However, they need to eat enough good food to keep their bones, muscles, and strength healthy.
People who are losing weight or eating poorly may need to see a registered dietitian. Some diet changes can also help. For example:
- Protein in a meal can reduce how well levodopa-carbidopa works in some people.
- Drinking enough water and eating high-fiber foods — like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables — can help with constipation.
Last Updated May 2026