The fastest way to find local Parkinson's disease support communities online is to use the Parkinson's Foundation's "Find Your Chapter" search tool or the American Parkinson Disease Association's zip-code finder—both let you locate groups, classes, and resources by location within minutes. Since over 1.1 million people live with Parkinson's disease in the U.S., these national networks operate hundreds of free support groups specifically designed for newly diagnosed patients, long-term participants, and family caregivers. Many groups now offer both in-person and online participation, so you can join from home or attend locally depending on your needs. This guide shows you the largest networks, how to search them, and what to expect when you connect.
Medical information disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a physician or other qualified health professional about symptoms, medications, tests, or treatment decisions.
Table of Contents
- Parkinson's Foundation—Largest Chapter Network
- American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA)—650+ Groups
- How to Search and Join
- What to Expect from Support Groups
- Online-Only and Peer-to-Peer Communities
- Frequently Asked Questions
Parkinson's Foundation—Largest Chapter Network
The Parkinson's Foundation maintains a nationwide network of chapters offering local support groups, exercise classes, and educational programs. Use their "Find Your Chapter" tool by entering your zip code to see what's available in your area.
If you prefer phone support, call their helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO to speak with someone who can recommend local options or connect you by phone. The Foundation has invested over $12.7 million in community programs since 2011, funding 90 community organizations in 38 states in recent years. This means many areas have well-established groups with experienced facilitators and structured curricula designed specifically for Parkinson's patients and caregivers.
American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA)—650+ Groups
The APDA operates 650+ free support groups serving over 33,700 people with Parkinson's disease and family members nationally. Like the Foundation, APDA provides a state and zip-code search tool to find groups and exercise classes near you.
Call 1-800-651-8466 if you'd rather speak to someone directly about options in your area. All APDA groups are free and explicitly welcome patients, caregivers, spouses, and loved ones—you don't need to be a newly diagnosed patient to join. Groups often meet weekly or monthly, and many have shifted to hybrid formats that let you attend in person or log in online.
How to Search and Join
Start with either network's online search tool by entering your zip code. Most will show you: If your area has few or no groups, both networks allow you to attend online groups hosted by chapters outside your location.
This is especially useful if you live in a rural area or have mobility challenges. You can also contact either helpline to ask about upcoming groups being formed in your region.
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- Meeting dates, times, and formats (in-person, online, or hybrid)
- Group focus (newly diagnosed, caregivers only, general support, exercise-based)
- Contact information and how to register
- Whether the group meets year-round or on a regular schedule
What to Expect from Support Groups
Local support groups typically meet in accessible community locations—libraries, medical offices, community centers—or via Zoom and other video platforms. Meetings usually run 1–2 hours and cover topics like managing symptoms, medication side effects, caregiver stress, and practical strategies shared by others with similar experiences.
You're not required to speak or share anything—many people attend several meetings before contributing. Facilitators are often trained volunteers or social workers, and confidentiality is respected. Most groups are free, though some may ask for small donations to cover refreshments or materials.
Online-Only and Peer-to-Peer Communities
If scheduled groups don't fit your routine, the Parkinson's Foundation and APDA both host online forums and discussion communities where you can connect asynchronously—posting questions and reading responses from other community members at any time. These lack the real-time connection of a group meeting but offer flexibility and access to a wider pool of experiences. Some people find value in using both: attending a local group monthly for face-to-face connection and using online forums weekly for quick answers or peer support outside meeting times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to share my story or speak in a support group?
No. Many people attend meetings for several visits before speaking. Listening to others' experiences is valuable on its own, and facilitators won't pressure you to contribute.
Are these groups really free?
Yes. Both the Parkinson's Foundation and APDA groups are free to join. Some groups may ask for optional donations to cover space rental or materials, but attendance is never contingent on payment.
What if there's no group near me?
Both networks offer online groups you can join from anywhere. Contact 1-800-4PD-INFO (Parkinson's Foundation) or 1-800-651-8466 (APDA) to ask about virtual options or new groups forming in your area.
Can caregivers attend, or is it only for people with Parkinson's?
Caregivers, spouses, and family members are explicitly welcome at all groups. Some groups have caregiver-specific sessions, and others are mixed.
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