WELCOME 2026!
10 Healthy Habits for the New Year
- Keep Moving Daily
Regular physical activity—such as walking, stretching, dancing, or Parkinson’s-specific exercise—can help improve mobility, balance, and mood. - Focus on Balanced Nutrition
Aim for meals that include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats to support overall health and energy. - Take Medications as Prescribed
Consistency with medication timing is important. Use reminders or pill organizers if helpful. - Prioritize Sleep
Establish a regular sleep routine and create a calm bedtime environment to support better rest and daytime functioning. - Stay Socially Connected
Maintaining relationships and participating in community or support groups can reduce isolation and support emotional well-being. - Practice Stress Management
Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, gentle yoga, or listening to music can help manage stress and anxiety. - Work on Balance and Posture
Simple exercises or physical therapy can help improve stability and reduce fall risk. - Keep the Mind Active
Reading, puzzles, learning new skills, or creative activities can help support cognitive health. - Communicate with Your Care Team
Share changes in symptoms or concerns with your healthcare providers so care can be adjusted as needed. - Be Kind to Yourself
Progress looks different for everyone. Celebrate small victories and focus on what you can do each day.
December=Stay well!
Stay Active in Small, Joyful Ways
Movement can make the holiday season feel brighter, but it doesn’t have to be intense or time-consuming. Short walks, gentle stretching, chair yoga, or a few minutes of purposeful movement throughout the day can help manage stiffness and boost mood. Choosing activities you enjoy Doing them at a pace that feels comfortable helps maintain mobility while keeping the season festive and low stress.
Plan! (For Energy and Ease)
Holiday gatherings and errands can be tiring, so pacing yourself is an important gift to give your body. Build in extra time to get ready, prioritize the events that matter most, and don’t hesitate to ask for support with tasks like cooking, driving, or bringing items to celebrations. Preparing medications, snacks, or hydration ahead of time can also help you feel more comfortable and confident during busy days.
Stay Connected and Nourish Your Well-Being
The holidays are a wonderful opportunity to lean into connection. Reach out to friends, family, or support groups, even short conversations can lift spirits and reduce feelings of isolation. Eating balanced meals, staying hydrated, and giving yourself moments of rest can make the whole season feel more manageable. Above all, be gentle with yourself and create a holiday experience that supports your well-being, joy, and peace. Please reach out to us for questions or support!
As always, if you need guidance, reach out to info@parkinsonsnebraska.org
November=Reminders for the Holiday Season
As we move into the holiday season, it’s a meaningful time to stay connected with loved ones. The colder months and busy schedules can make isolation more likely, which can take a toll on mental and emotional health. Reaching out to family, friends, or support groups can make a world of difference. Establishing a daily routine, whether it’s attending exercise classes, setting aside time for relaxation, or keeping social commitments. This can help bring structure, balance, and a sense of purpose. Parkinson’s Nebraska is here to remind you that you are not alone, and small steps toward connection and consistency can lead to lasting well-being.
Here are some tips for you and your loved ones:
Maintain Routine and Medication Schedule:
The holidays often bring changes in routine, travel, and social events that can disrupt normal medication times or daily habits. It’s essential to stick to a consistent schedule for taking medication, meals, exercise, and rest to help manage symptoms effectively.
Plan for Energy and Mobility Needs:
Fatigue and movement challenges may increase during busy gatherings. Allow for extra rest, avoid overcrowded spaces, and plan ahead for accessibility (such as seating, handrails, and short walking distances). Encourage breaks and gentle movement to stay comfortable.
Prioritize Emotional Well-Being and Connection:
The holidays can be emotionally challenging, especially if dealing with stress, fatigue, or feelings of isolation. Staying connected with family, friends, or support groups, even virtually, can boost mood and reduce loneliness. Loved ones should be patient and supportive, understanding that Parkinson’s symptoms may fluctuate.
Happy Holidays!
October=What to know about Dementia and Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease and dementia are closely aligned neurological disorders that share overlapping pathological, clinical, and cognitive features. Parkinson’s disease (PD) primarily affects movement due to the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra, leading to symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia. However, as the disease progresses, many individuals also experience significant cognitive decline, reflecting the spread of neurodegeneration beyond motor regions of the brain. This overlap highlights that PD is not solely a motor disorder but a complex neurodegenerative condition with cognitive and behavioral implications.
Dementia, particularly Parkinson’s disease dementia (PDD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), shares many clinical characteristics with Parkinson’s disease. Both conditions involve the accumulation of Lewy bodies—abnormal clumps of the protein alpha-synuclein—in brain cells, which disrupt normal neuronal functioning. The distinction between PDD and DLB is largely based on the timing of cognitive symptoms relative to motor impairments, but their underlying pathology and symptoms such as memory loss, confusion, visual hallucinations, and slowed thinking are remarkably similar. This alignment suggests that Parkinson’s disease and dementia exist on a spectrum of Lewy body disorders, underscoring the interconnected nature of motor and cognitive degeneration within the brain.
At Parkinson’s Nebraska we understand how hard it can be to navigate Parkinson’s disease, so speaking to a professional will greatly help to understand the pathways necessary to help a patient with Parkinson’s disease and dementia.
Please contact us for help! info@parkinsonsnebraska.org
September=Safety
9/2/2025
September is our featured month for safety! Below is an overview on ways to keep yourself or your patients safe in the home.
Providing safety in the home for individuals with Parkinson’s disease involves creating an environment that minimizes fall risks, supports mobility, and accommodates changes in motor control. Parkinson’s can cause tremors, muscle rigidity, balance issues, and slower movements, making everyday tasks potentially hazardous. To reduce these risks, it’s essential to keep floors clear of clutter, secure rugs, and ensure adequate lighting in all rooms and hallways. Installing grab bars in bathrooms, using non-slip mats, and arranging furniture to allow wide pathways can further enhance safety.
Many people also benefit from adaptive equipment such as raised toilet seats, shower chairs, and walking aids to maintain independence while reducing injury risks. Safety measures should also account for the progressive nature of Parkinson’s disease. As symptoms evolve, individuals may require additional modifications, such as stairlifts, handrails, or voice-activated devices to assist with daily routines. Caregivers and family members play a crucial role in monitoring changes in mobility, cognitive function, and medication side effects that could affect safety. Regular home assessments by occupational therapists or physical therapists can help identify hazards and recommend personalized solutions, fostering a safe, supportive living environment that promotes both independence and quality of life. Our mission is to provide education, support and resources to do this!
8/1/2025
Connecting with a well-informed and experienced neurologist is crucial for individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease (PD), a complex, progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, mood, and cognition. A knowledgeable neurologist, certainly one who specializes in movement disorders, can accurately assess the stage and progression of the disease, tailor treatment plans to the individual’s needs, and monitor for changes that may require adjustments in therapy. Given the range of symptoms and responses to medication, having a trusted specialist ensures that management strategies are both evidence-based and responsive to the unique course of the disease in each person.
In addition to providing medical care, a good neurologist acts as a central figure in a patient’s care team, coordinating with physical therapists, occupational therapists, mental health professionals, and support networks. This whole wellness approach helps patients maintain the highest possible quality of life and independence. Furthermore, an informed neurologist can guide patients and their families through the evolving landscape of clinical trials, new therapies, and emerging research, offering hope and access to cutting-edge treatment options. Building this relationship early in the diagnosis can empower individuals with Parkinson’s to make informed decisions and feel supported throughout their journey
Please reach out to info@parkinsonsnebraska.org or check our resources tab for neurologists in your area!
Parkinson’s Disease: What you should understand!
7/10/2025
Understanding Parkinson’s disease is crucial for each patient because the condition manifests uniquely in every individual. While common symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and slow movements are widely recognized, the specific combination and severity of these symptoms can vary dramatically. Some patients may experience primarily motor symptoms, while others may face more significant non-motor challenges, such as depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, or cognitive decline. This variability means that no two cases of Parkinson’s are identical, and treatment plans must be personalized to address the distinct needs, experiences, and goals of each person.
Additionally, understanding one’s own version of Parkinson’s empowers patients to take an active role in managing their health. Awareness of how the disease progresses in their own body can help individuals communicate more effectively with healthcare providers, make informed decisions about therapies, and adjust lifestyle factors that may influence their quality of life. It also encourages patients to track symptoms over time and recognize changes that may require medical attention. Ultimately, personalized understanding fosters a sense of control, leading to more effective self-advocacy and better long-term outcomes.
Seek a neurologist who will answer questions and find a local support group!
For help, email info@parkinsonsnebraska.org
Parkinson’s Disease: What should I know?
6/16/2025
If you have Parkinson’s disease, the most important thing to know is that it’s a progressive but manageable condition, and early, consistent, and individualized care makes a major difference in your quality of life. There is no cure, but medications (like levodopa, dopamine agonists) and lifestyle changes help manage symptoms. What works well for one person may not for another. Regular monitoring and adjustments are vital. Here are some key factors:
Exercise Is Crucial
Regular physical activity, especially balance and strength training (e.g., tai chi, dance, boxing), slows symptom progression and boosts mood and cognition.
Start a routine as early as possible and stick with it.
Build a Strong Care Team
A neurologist (ideally a movement disorder specialist), physical/occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, mental health professionals, and social workers can provide targeted support.
Don’t go it alone—lean on your team and educate family/friends.
Stay Proactive and Educated
Parkinson’s varies widely between individuals, so being informed helps you advocate for your needs.
Join support groups, learn about the disease, and track your symptoms.
Please reach out to info@parkinsonsnebraska.org to find an exercise group, practitioner or support!