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There are many professionals and voluntary organisations around to help people affected by Parkinson’s disease, their carers, families and friends. 

The GP
He or she may have known you for a long time and will be familiar with all of your medical problems and history, not just Parkinson’s disease. They will coordinate the care offered by the other professionals involved in your treatment and help you to take advantage of the different information that they can provide. If you have a problem, your GP is the person to ask first. If they cannot help you they will be able to tell you who to contact.

The neurologist or geriatrician
He or she has specialist knowledge about Parkinson’s disease. Usually they decide which drug treatment is most suitable and can answer any questions you have about the disease. You may only see the specialist on an occasional basis, but your GP can always contact them if necessary. They will look after you if you have to be admitted to hospital in connection with your Parkinson’s disease.

Nurses
This actually covers a whole range of different professionals. Some health areas have Parkinson’s disease nurse specialists. They can usually advise on any aspect of Parkinson’s disease and tell you what help is available for people affected by Parkinson’s disease in your area. Other professionals rely on them to provide expert knowledge. Sometimes you may see one of these nurses at a clinic, or in your home, instead of seeing the doctor. District nurses carry out more general nursing duties in the community, and practice nurses work alongside GPs, and of course there are nurses in hospitals.

Physiotherapists
Exercise plays an important part in any healthy lifestyle. Physiotherapists work in hospitals and in the community, and they can advise on exercise routines which you should then follow at home. They can also give excellent advice on moving around the home more easily and getting into and out of bed and the bath, etc. This is essential to help you overcome the symptoms of the disease. Parkinson’s disease should not stop you taking part in any of your usual exercise routines and it is a good idea to keep them up for as long as possible.

Occupational therapists
There is no doubt that having Parkinson’s disease has a major effect on people’s lives and makes everyday tasks more difficult. Occupational therapists can help you plan your day so that there is a balance between work, rest and leisure activities. Having Parkinson’s disease does not necessarily mean that you have to give up your job if you are still working. Occupational therapists can teach you techniques to make tasks simpler and provide you with gadgets to help. It is extremely important for you to pace yourself - try not to get over-tired and rest if you have to. Some occupational therapists work in hospitals, others in the community. You can also get in touch with them through Social Services.

Speech and language therapists
These will be able to help you overcome any speech or communication problems you may have. This may involve teaching you to talk more slowly or to project your voice again. They may be involved in checking that you are swallowing properly, and they will be able to give you advice if you are not.

Dietician
Having excessive shaking, writhing movements, swallowing problems or even just having Parkinson’s disease itself can cause weight loss. This, combined with the fact that the drugs used to treat the disease do not always work well if taken with high-protein foods, makes the dietician’s advice invaluable. They will help you to maintain a healthy, balanced diet and a healthy weight, although there is no specific diet for people with Parkinson’s disease.

Clinical psychologist
A psychologist may be involved in your care, especially if you are having severe memory problems or if you are finding it very difficult to cope with your disease emotionally. They may ask a psychiatrist for an opinion if you are depressed or anxious. They may advise counselling.

Social Services
People affected by Parkinson’s disease and their carers will be assessed to see if help is needed. This can take the form of actual physical help, gadgets or time out for both people. If the home situation is particularly complicated a social worker will be allocated to you.

Benefits Agency
You may be entitled to Disability Living Allowance/Attendance Allowance, Carers Allowance or other benefits, and the benefits agency will help you with this. Disabled drivers’ (blue) badges for your car are available through Social Services, and you may also be entitled to one of these. You must tell the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority in Swansea that you have been diagnosed as having Parkinson’s disease. They will not stop you driving, but they need to know, as does your insurance company. You may be entitled to a discount on your road tax as well. Your local Post Office has information about this, and while you are there, you can pick up a leaflet about free or discounted prescriptions.

Pharmacist
He or she will be able to give you advice about your drug treatment. If you are buying any over-the-counter remedies check with them to make sure they do not react with your Parkinson’s disease medicines. Make sure you have checked your entitlement for free or discounted prescriptions (see above).

Charity groups and voluntary organisations
These can offer a great deal of support. The Parkinson’s Disease Society (see Other organisations that may be able to help) has a wealth of information on all aspects of the disease, from where care is available to holidays to new research. It also has a helpline. Local branches will give you the opportunity to meet other people with Parkinson’s disease if you wish to do so. Other groups offer a range of services.

Complimentary medicine
As with many diseases, massage, aromatherapy, acupuncture, special diets and other complimentary treatments have their place. They can compliment standard treatments well. If you are considering trying any of these, please use a reputable practitioner and let your GP know.