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If you have Parkinson's, chances are you've thought about falling—or perhaps you've already experienced one. A fall can be more than just a bruise or a broken bone. It can affect confidence, independence and the willingness to keep moving. And once you become afraid of falling, it can be tempting to do less, which can create its own challenges. For Falls Prevention Week, September 21–25, this episode looks at the connection between Parkinson's and falls. Why do we fall? What role do freezing, balance problems and medications play? Can exercise and physical therapy really help? And what changes can we make at home to reduce the risk? I spoke with Jennie Alex, PT at The Parkinson's Fitness Project and Daily Dose PD. She helped us understand balance issues in Episode 135. We explore these questions and share practical strategies for people with Parkinson's and their care partners. The goal isn't to stop living because we're afraid of falling—it's to find ways to keep moving safely and confidently. https://theparkinsonsfitnessproject.com/ https://www.dailydosepd.com/ Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches

After living with Parkinson's for 10 years, I still struggle to recognize when I'm experiencing OFF time. And dyskinesia? I never quite know when it will happen or why. I'm sure I'm not alone. So, as part of our "Dr. Ospina Explains" series, I asked Dr. Ospina to break down the terms we hear so often in Parkinson's: ON, OFF, dyskinesia, dystonia, and more. She walks us through the medication roller coaster—what it looks like, why it happens, and how it can change over the years. She also explains how to tell the difference between OFF symptoms, dyskinesia, and dystonia, and why it's important to pay attention to more than just movement. Non-motor symptoms can also fluctuate with medication and may even signal an approaching OFF period before motor symptoms appear. This is an episode you may want to bookmark and come back to. Understanding these differences can help you recognize what's happening in your own Parkinson's journey—and, ultimately, better communicate with your care team about how symptoms are affecting your quality of life. Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches

In our last episode, we featured a wearable device that uses gentle vibrations to help people manage Parkinson's symptoms and reduce anxiety. If you haven't listened yet, I encourage you to do so. It's a fascinating conversation about how something as simple as a vibrating wristband—BeechBand—may influence the brain in ways that help ease anxiety and tremors. Best of all, it's easy to use and fully refundable if it doesn't work for you in 100 days.. This episode also explores wearable technology, but with a very different purpose—one that could transform how we manage Parkinson's and partner with our healthcare teams. StrivePD, developed by Rune Labs, is an app that pairs with your Apple Watch to track movement, heart rate, sleep, and other important health data. It then provides easy-to-understand reports that highlight trends over time, giving you a clearer picture of how your Parkinson's is changing between doctor visits. Imagine arriving at your next appointment with objective, actionable information instead of relying on memory alone. That kind of insight can lead to more informed conversations and better care decisions. And this is only the beginning of what's possible with StrivePD. I thoroughly enjoyed my conversation with Rune Labs CEO Amy Gordon Franzen and learning about the future of digital health for Parkinson's. I think you'll find it both informative and inspiring. https://www.strive.group/ https://www.runelabs.io/post/strivepd-empowering-parkinsons-patients-with-personalized-insights [email protected]  Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches

Today we're talking about BeechBand, a wearable wellness device designed to support people living with neurological conditions, including Parkinson's disease. If you've spent any time in the Parkinson's community lately, you've probably heard the name. Carl Beech, the co-inventor and founder, seems to be everywhere sharing the story behind this innovative wearable. Friends of mine who have purchased a BeechBand rave about the results. Carl regularly appears in my Instagram feed, and when I attended the World Parkinson's Congress (WPC) in May, his booth was consistently packed with people eager to learn more. It's clear that the word is getting out, and BeechBand appears to be gaining real momentum. I have to admit—I became a believer myself. In this episode, Carl shares the origins of BeechBand, the personal story that inspired its creation, and how the device is designed to help people with Parkinson's. Listen in to discover what makes this wearable so intriguing. You just might become a believer, too. https://www.beechband.com/pages/about Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches

For some reason, I've always been fascinated by grief and the grieving process. It seems to be everywhere—in the TV shows I watch, the podcasts I listen to, and the conversations I have with friends. Every one of us experiences grief, yet no two people grieve in exactly the same way. I've become curious about why that is and what we can learn from one another's experiences. That curiosity led me to attend a Support Group Leader session on grief at the World Parkinson Congress last May. One of the presenters was my friend, Karen McIntyre, who introduced an idea that really resonated with me: grief doesn't begin only when someone we love dies. For people living with Parkinson's, grief can occur every time they lose an ability that was once part of everyday life—driving a car, walking long distances, writing by hand, or even enjoying the smell of a favorite meal. What does that kind of grief look like? Is grieving the loss of an ability different from grieving the death of a loved one? Or do they share more similarities than we realize? To explore those questions, I invited Karen, who writes thoughtfully about grief on her Substack, to join me in interviewing an expert in grief and bereavement. Together, we discuss how grief affects all of us, why it takes so many different forms, and how people with Parkinson's and their care partners can better understand and navigate the losses that accompany the disease. This episode is truly for everyone because, at some point in our lives, we all grieve someone or something that has mattered deeply to us. https://clairebidwellsmith.com/ https://www.elegy.co/ https://substack.com/@inmyshoesmemoir Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches

Intimacy is one of the most important topics we can discuss, yet it's also one that I've hesitated to bring to this podcast. For many of us, it's still considered a taboo subject. But the reality is that intimacy and relationships are an important part of life for everyone—and they can become even more important, and sometimes more challenging, for people living with Parkinson's disease and their care partners. Since I'm certainly not the expert on this topic—and I'll admit it makes me a little uncomfortable—I've invited someone who is. Dr. Kelly Rees is a licensed sex therapist in private practice who has a remarkable ability to discuss intimacy in an open, approachable, and judgment-free way. In our conversation, she explains why nurturing intimacy is so important throughout the Parkinson's journey, offers practical insights for navigating the changes that can occur, and reminds us that connection comes in many forms. So, whether you're living with Parkinson's, supporting someone who is, or simply interested in strengthening your relationships, I think you'll find this conversation both informative and reassuring. Let's listen https://drkellyrees.com/ https://www.aasect.org/referral-directory Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches

I have told this story many times. After my diagnosis, my doctor wanted me to learn the "Big and Loud" program or LSVP. The physical therapist at the outpatient clinic saved my life. He told me I was going to live a long life and how to exercise Big. He told me to do something for my brain like play Mahjong.  I followed his directions. I go to physical therapy every year to continue to work on balance, posture and gait. I think a good PT is a key member of your medical team. Physical therapy is one of the most powerful tools available for living well with Parkinson's disease, and in this episode, Dr. Jennie Allex explains why movement is truly medicine. As a board-certified neurologic physical therapist and Parkinson's specialist, Jennie shares how targeted exercise can help people maintain mobility, improve balance, reduce fall risk, and preserve independence throughout every stage of the disease. In this episode, we are focused on one issue which is very important to address – balance. It turns out there is a lot going on in your brain and body to keep you upright. Jennie discusses how Parkinson's affects the three systems that work together in order to prevent falls.  She emphasizes how important it is to get an assessment from a qualified PT so you get the best treatment to improve your balance. The conversation explores practical strategies for balance while highlighting the importance of consistent exercise between therapy visits. Jennie explains how specialized Parkinson's programs, including evidence-based approaches such as PWR!Moves® and other Parkinson's-specific interventions, help retrain movement and build confidence. Whether you're newly diagnosed, have been living with Parkinson's for years, or care for someone with the disease, this episode provides practical, encouraging guidance on how physical therapy can help you move better, stay stronger, and continue living to the fullest.  https://www.dailydosepd.com/ https://theparkinsonsfitnessproject.com/ Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches

Today we are going to describe and explain neuropathy. What is it? Why am I experience the symptoms? What causes the symptoms to come and go? Is it due to my Parkinson's disease or just old age? This is the second of three episodes in the "Dr. Ospina Explains" series. In this episode, we learn all about neuropathies. So, if you have or had or anticipate having any tingling, numbness, burning, weakness is your feet or elsewhere, this is the episode for you. https://www.apdaparkinson.org/article/peripheral-neuropathy-parkinsons-disease/ Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches

I love bringing you innovative ideas that are improving the lives of people with Parkinson's—and this one truly surprised me. I never thought learning to play the harmonica would make the list, but here we are. In this episode, I share the story of an inspirational physical therapist in Hawaii who received a grant to study how learning the harmonica can impact speech in people with Parkinson's disease. Even though it was a small study, the results were encouraging, and he's now expanding his work to bring this creative therapy to more people. It turns out the harmonica isn't just about making music—it's a powerful tool for strengthening breathing, mouth muscles, and coordination, all of which are essential for clear speech. Similar to established speech therapies, this approach helps build vocal strength and breath control, but with a fun and engaging twist that keeps people motivated. To make it accessible, he's even creating a program-in-a-box that includes everything you need: a harmonica, a lesson book, and access to a companion website and YouTube tutorials.You have to listen to this episode—even if you're not musically inclined. This is about so much more than music; it's about discovering creative, effective ways to improve quality of life. https://harmonicaparkinsonsproject.com/   (Lauching soon) [email protected] (email address for our guest) https://store.bookbaby.com/Book/the-harmonica-parkinsons-project  (purchase book) Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches

In this episode we explore Tai Chi for Parkinson's disease  - how this gentle, low-impact mind–body practice can support people living with the condition. As we know, Parkinson's affects movement, balance, and coordination due to changes in the brain's dopamine system. We will highlight how Tai Chi's slow, controlled motions can help counter these challenges. We spoke with a long time Tai Chi instructor who has modified his instructions to include all people with Parkinson's. He focuses on key benefits backed by research, such as improved balance, reduced risk of falls, better posture, and increased flexibility. He describes how Tai Chi emphasizes weight shifting, body awareness, and deliberate movement—skills that are especially valuable for individuals with Parkinson's. Other benefits may be cognitive and emotional, including reduced stress and improved focus. Overall, Tai Chi is a complementary therapy—not a cure—that can be integrated alongside medical treatment to help manage symptoms and promote overall well-being. Box4Bucks fitness challenge fundraiser. To donate click this link. https://give.michaeljfox.org/box4bucks  Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches

At the Parkinson's Experience podcast, we love a powerful, uplifting story — and this is one you won't forget. After battling Parkinson's disease for nine years, Hank Bode passed away in January 2025. Throughout that journey, Hank and his son Lincoln closely followed the work of the Michael J. Fox Foundation, inspired by its commitment to directing 100% of donations to Parkinson's research and its relentless pursuit of a cure. To honor his father and raise funds for Parkinson's research, Lincoln decided to do something extraordinary. As a member of Team Fox, he took on the World Marathon Challenge — running 7 half marathons in 7 days across 7 continents. Beginning January 31, 2026 in Antarctica, Lincoln raced through Cape Town, Perth, Dubai, Madrid, Brazil, and finished in Miami on February 6, 2026. For seven days his life was run, eat, fly, sleep then repeat.  He pushed his limits, carried his father's legacy across the globe, and completed the challenge with a story that will inspire anyone facing adversity. You dont want to miss this one. https://give.michaeljfox.org/fundraiser/6877830 https://www.instagram.com/team.fox.777/ Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches

This is the first episode in a three-part series I'm calling Dr. Ospina Explains. In this series, we'll dive into topics many of you have been asking about recently. One of my favorite Movement Disorder Specialists, Dr. Ospina, has a wonderful way of explaining all things Parkinson's in terms that are easy for the rest of us to understand. I hope you'll tune in to all three parts as they're released — I truly believe you'll learn a lot. We're starting with Botox. Like many people, I used to think Botox had only one purpose — cosmetic. But after speaking with Movement Disorder Specialist Dr. Marie Ospina, I learned that Botox can actually help treat several symptoms that occur in people living with Parkinson's. You'll discover exactly what those symptoms are when you listen to my conversation with Dr. Ospina. I think you may be surprised — and you might even find yourself asking your MDS or neurologist whether Botox could help relieve some of your pain or muscle tightness. Stay tuned! Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches

Do you have trouble sleeping? It's a topic you can't avoid once you reach a certain age. And while sleep problems are common in people with Parkinson's disease, they certainly aren't limited to them. Because of that, treatment is often the same as it is for anyone else. Until researchers uncover more specific biological causes in Parkinson's—progress is being made—we rely on standard, evidence-based treatments for insomnia. In this episode, we speak with an expert about one such treatment: a non-medication approach called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia, or CBT-I. It helped me tremendously, and I hope you'll listen. It may be something you want to try. https://cbti.directory/ Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches

The World Parkinson Coalition is bringing its triennial World Parkinson Congress to Phoenix in May 2026—the first time the Congress has been hosted in the U.S. since 2016. This is truly a can't-miss event for anyone in the Parkinson's community. The Congress will bring together approximately 4,000 attendees from around the world, including researchers, healthcare professionals, people with Parkinson's, and care partners. It's a unique opportunity to learn about the latest research, emerging therapies, and the global effort to improve care—while also connecting with an incredible community of people and resources. Guest, Eli Pollard, describes the gathering as an opportuntity to cross pollinate ideas with peers around the world - all working to cure the disease. I'm especially excited to share that I've been invited to serve on the local organizing committee and the support group leadership subcommittee. I can confidently say this will be an important and inspiring gathering of the world's Parkinson's experts, with some fun events mixed in as well. 📅 Mark your calendars: May 24–27, 2026 📍 Location: Phoenix, Arizona Don't miss it—add it to your calendar and register using the link below. Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches   https://wpc2026.org/

This year I have been highlighting some of local areas in the U.S. where people with Parkinson's take classes designed for their needs, provide social support, and community. It is truly magical to have this kind of central location just focused on your needs as a person with Parkinson's. Just last month we highlighted Parkinson's Body & Mind in Connecticut. They have done and continue to provide spaces where PWP can gather for exercise, wellness and community programs – all for free.  If you didn't listen to that episode, check it out soon. In this episode, we talk with the co-founders of InMotion, which offers community-based wellness programs for people with Parkinson's disease. They provide this service free of charge in the greater Cleveland area and online. They talk about giving People with Parkinson's the "power to change the script "and to "feel better every day." This is a true success story, and they continue to learn and grow.  Learn more by listening to this conversation with Dr. Karen Jaffe and Ben Rossi of In Motion. How might you form a similar organization in your part of the country to provide valuable wellness programs and a greater sense of community? Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches   https://beinmotion.org/