The person in your care and his or her family are a central part of the team.
The family doctor (or primary care physician) is usually the first point of contact. You and the person in your care will probably see this doctor most often over the years. The primary care doctor looks after the person’s general health and helps coordinate care with other health care professionals.
Neurologists have specialized knowledge of Parkinson’s disease. Visits will be occasional and referral is normally from the primary care physician. Not all neurologists are expert in Parkinson’s disease management. It may be wise to ask for a referral to a movement disorders specialist.
You may see a nurse practitioner or physician assistant sometimes instead of a doctor.
The pharmacist is another important part of your team. Try to use the same pharmacy all the time so there is a record of all medications being taken. The pharmacist can give you advice about drug treatments and ensure that over-the-counter medications and vitamin supplements do not interact with prescription drugs.
The physical therapist (or physiotherapist as he or she is called in Europe) can look into problems with mobility (ability to move around), balance, and posture. Because Parkinson’s affects movement control, exercise plays an important role in helping people with Parkinson’s have a healthy lifestyle. A physical therapist can also advise on exercise and on overcoming symptoms so that it doesn’t have as much impact on the person’s daily routine.
Occupational therapists can help with planning the person’s day. They can advise you and the person in your care about balancing work, relaxation, and leisure activities. (Having Parkinson disease does not mean that a person has to give up his or her job.)
A counselor can provide individual or family counseling. The difficulties caused by Parkinson’s can often be accompanied by feelings of sadness and depression. A counselor can help everyone adjust to the changes.
Speech and language therapists can help the person speak more clearly and with problems such as speaking too softly. They can also help with swallowing problems.
A registered dietician can advise on planning a healthful diet and maintaining the right weight. If there are problems with weight loss (or gain) or constipation, the doctor may refer the person to a dietician. Dietary advice may also benefit treatment, because diet and when you eat can affect how medications work.
A psychologist may provide advice and counseling if the person is having difficulty coping with the disease emotionally or with such things as memory problems.
A psychiatrist is an expert in mental health problems who can help with problems such as depression, anxiety, and disturbances in thinking and perception. These symptoms may require specialized treatment.
A social worker may provide nonmedical assistance. This might include help with the general management of Parkinson’s disease, financial advice, and respite care. A social worker will be able to access available community resources and find the right financial assistance program for you.
