Parkinson's UK local support activity guide

Physical activity and exercise

Physical activity and exercise can be as important as medication to help manage your symptoms. But there’s no one-size-fits all approach. Improve your strength, flexibility, or just have fun. Explore a range of classes suitable for people with Parkinson’s, from seated classes to high energy workouts, Yoga to Nordic Walking.  

These include:

• General classes
• Resistance band workouts
• Vigorous exercise classes - designed for people with Parkinson’s to work the whole body
• High energy sport - such as squash, skipping or a spin class
• Seated classes
• Moderate exercise classes - designed to work on your strength, balance, movement and flexibility
• Moderate Parkinson’s classes - such as yoga, Tai Chi or a quick walk
• Flexibility with strength

Creative activities

Doing something creative can help to boost your confidence and improve your quality of life. Creative activities can include art, signing and creative writing.

Complementary therapies

While there’s no evidence that complementary therapies can stop, slow down or reverse Parkinson’s, many people have positive experiences. There’s a range of therapies to choose from, and it’s important to explore what works for you. 

These include: 

• Relaxation classes
• Aromatherapy
• Reflexology
• Acupressure
• Laughter therapy 
• Reiki
• Alexander technique
• Massage

You can find out more about the different types of complementary therapies on our website. 

Clinical therapies

Clinical therapies can help people with Parkinson’s to manage their symptoms. Different therapies will appeal to different people, so try things out and see what works for you.

Different types of therapy include:

• Physiotherapy 
• Speech and language therapy 
• Podiatry
• Hydrotherapy
• Counselling
• Conductive education

You can find out more about the different types of clinical therapies on our website.

Mutual support and peer support

Find support from other people affected by Parkinson’s across the UK, either in person or online. Visit a Parkinson's cafe for an informal chat or a group that suits your circumstances or interests. Join the online forum to meet people living further afield. 

Choose from:

• Group meetings
• Carers meetings
• Online forum
• Parkinson’s cafes

Befriending

Befriending can provide someone who is isolated with a link to their local community. A friendly chat can make a real difference. Parkinson’s UK does not currently provide a befriending service, but we can signpost you to other local organisations and schemes.

Financial assistance

If you have Parkinson's or care for someone who does, you may have concerns about how you will manage financially. Support is available and it's important to find out what you're entitled to. There may be support local to you and our helpline and Parkinson's local advisers are here to answer any questions you have about money, grants and benefits. 
 
You may also be eligible for a Parkinson’s UK grant of up to £1,500. You can find out more about Parkinson’s UK grants on our website or contact us at [email protected] or on 0344 225 3785.

Managing Parkinson’s programmes

Programmes give you support and greater confidence to take more control of life with Parkinson’s in a way that’s right for you. Parkinson’s UK’s First Steps is a 2-day programme designed for people recently diagnosed with Parkinson's, and their families or carers. Other programmes are available that can support you with the day-to-day impact of Parkinson’s. We’ll help you find the support you need.

Other help and advice

You're not alone. There may be other organisations in your area that can provide you with further information and additional support if you are affected by Parkinson's, or care for someone with the condition.

Social activities

Lots of people find that when living with Parkinson's it's important to do the things that you enjoy and that help you live a full life. These don't have to be something big or expensive - you'll feel the benefits of doing any activity you enjoy. From dances to tea and coffee mornings, there are a variety of social activities on offer.

These include: 

• Tea and coffee mornings
• Tea dances
• Activity groups
• Poetry and prose discussion
• Drop-ins and get togethers
• Friendship groups
• Lunch and dinner clubs
• Reminiscence groups
• Outings and lunches