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As Parkinson’s affect an individual’s physical activity beliefs and behaviours, focusing on this can be a useful way to introduce the topic.
Using a non-judgemental and respectful way to get a conversation about physical activity started can keep the individual actively engaged in the conversation and decision making.
If done successfully, a 1-minute conversation can plant the seed for successful behaviour change.
Evidence exists to support early introduction of exercise at the time of diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease, in addition to the clear benefit now shown in those with established disease.
Physical activity is safe for people with Parkinson’s and should be encouraged at all stages of Parkinson’s disease but especially early after diagnosis.
All physical activity counts towards moving more and in Parkinson’s, the more you put into it the greater the benefit.
“This is the positive side of Parkinson’s: I feel fitter at 60 than when I was 40”
“I realized that my body can move pretty much more than I figured it could, or ever would’ve thought I can move it.”
“It’s never too early to start, it’s never too late to start”
Physical activity is a key part of optimising and maintaining health for patients with Parkinson’s. Common benefits reported by people with Parkinson’s include:
Asking a question such as ‘what do you make of this’ allows some space for people to talk and explore the information rather than asking ‘do you understand?’ which can shut things down. They may already have a good understanding of the benefits of physical activity, so if you’re pressed for time you can ask it like this without patronising them and also offer the opportunity for them to tell you that they know it already.
Evidence exists to support early introduction of exercise at the time of diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease, in addition to the clear benefit now shown in those with established disease.
Physical activity is safe for people with Parkinson’s and should be encouraged at all stages of Parkinson’s disease but especially early after diagnosis.
All physical activity counts towards moving more and in Parkinson’s, the more you put into it the greater the benefit.
“This is the positive side of Parkinson’s: I feel fitter at 60 than when I was 40”
“I realized that my body can move pretty much more than I figured it could, or ever would’ve thought I can move it.”
“It’s never too early to start, it’s never too late to start”
Arranging follow up is important after a positively received 1-minute conversation. Offer a follow up opportunity with you or a colleague appropriate to the environment you work in and resources available.
Signpost the patient information section.
Follow up may be with you, a colleague or another service, but try to capitalise on the opportunity provided and book the next step before they leave.
If they decline a follow up appointment offer them a patient information leaflet, thank them for taking the time to talk with you about physical activity and reassure them help is available when they feel ready for change.
Evidence exists to support early introduction of exercise at the time of diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease, in addition to the clear benefit now shown in those with established disease.
Physical activity is safe for people with Parkinson’s and should be encouraged at all stages of Parkinson’s disease but especially early after diagnosis.
All physical activity counts towards moving more and in Parkinson’s, the more you put into it the greater the benefit.
“This is the positive side of Parkinson’s: I feel fitter at 60 than when I was 40”
“I realized that my body can move pretty much more than I figured it could, or ever would’ve thought I can move it.”
“It’s never too early to start, it’s never too late to start”
If you’d like to hear more about Moving Medicine and receive notifications on updates, please sign up below.