Start Here: Parkinson’s Disease Guides for Patients and Caregivers

Welcome. If you or someone you love has recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease — or you’re searching because something doesn’t feel right — this page is for you. It organizes our 25 long-form guides into a clean reading path so you can find what you need without scrolling through everything we’ve published. Pick the section that matches where you are right now.

Medical disclaimer. Everything on this site is general information. It is not medical advice, and it is not a substitute for evaluation by a qualified clinician. See our Medical Disclaimer.

1. Newly diagnosed (or wondering if you should be evaluated)

If you’re at the beginning, start with these. They cover what the disease is, how it’s diagnosed, what symptoms to know about, and how the course is usually described.

2. Medication questions

Most people with Parkinson’s eventually take one or more medications. These guides explain what each drug class does and answer the practical questions patients ask most often — timing, side effects, off periods, and how diet interacts with treatment.

3. Movement, falls, and exercise

Exercise is one of the few interventions in Parkinson’s care with strong evidence across many outcomes. These guides explain the most useful exercise approaches and the specific movement problems — like freezing of gait and falls — that benefit from targeted help.

4. Daily living and safety

Sleep, swallowing, footwear, and the home environment all shape day-to-day life. These guides cover the practical changes that make life safer and easier.

5. Caregiver help

For partners, adult children, siblings, friends, and professional caregivers. The first article is a pillar guide to the first year; the second covers the burnout that all caregivers eventually face.

6. Financial, legal, and research topics

These guides cover the practical questions that come up around work, insurance, planning, and how patients and families can contribute to research.

Want to browse everything?

See our complete index at Parkinson’s Disease Guides, or use the category links in the navigation. To learn more about who publishes this site, see About and Editorial Policy.