Essential Rules for Exercising With Parkinson’s

Name: TenderHearted Home Care and Samaritan Healthcare
Address: 130 N Arlington St, Suite H, Salisbury, North Carolina, 28144, United States
Telephone: (704) 612-4132
Price range: $

By TenderHearted Home Care, LLC | July 9, 2025 |

Living with Parkinson’s disease comes with unique challenges, but despite those, it is essential for seniors to remain active. In fact, exercise has been shown to slow disease progression, improve balance, and enhance overall well-being for seniors with Parkinson’s. However, exercising safely with this condition requires understanding specific guidelines and support from professionals, such as home care.

What Rules Exist for Exercising with Parkinson’s?

First, before beginning any exercise program, seniors should consult with their neurologist or movement disorder specialist. They can assess the senior’s current symptoms, medication timing, and any physical limitations to help design a safe exercise routine. This is particularly important as Parkinson’s affects everyone differently. Other rules include the following:

Exercise During “On” Times: Parkinson’s medications create periods of better symptom control called “on” times. Seniors should schedule exercise sessions during these periods when mobility is improved and stiffness is reduced. This typically occurs 30-60 minutes after taking medication, though timing varies by individual.
Focus on Large-Amplitude Movements: Parkinson’s causes movements to become smaller and more restricted. Deliberately practicing large, exaggerated movements helps counteract this tendency. Think big steps, wide arm swings, and full range of motion exercises. Home care can help seniors understand this concept and ensure they’re doing the movements safely.
Incorporate Balance and Coordination Training: Balance problems are common in Parkinson’s, increasing fall risk. With this in mind, seniors should include exercises that challenge balance, such as standing on one foot, walking heel-to-toe, or practicing tai chi. These activities help maintain stability and confidence in movement.
Maintain Consistent Rhythm: Rhythmic activities like dancing, marching to music, or using a metronome during exercises can help overcome freezing episodes and improve movement fluidity. The external rhythm provides cues that help the brain initiate and maintain movement.
Include Flexibility and Stretching: Parkinson’s often causes muscle rigidity and stiffness. Daily stretching routines help maintain flexibility, reduce pain, and improve posture. Seniors should focus on areas that commonly tighten, including the neck, shoulders, trunk, and hips.
Progress Gradually: It’s important to start slowly and increase intensity and duration gradually. Fatigue is common in Parkinson’s, so seniors should be encouraged to listen to their bodies and adjust accordingly. Consistency is more important than intensity.

How Home Care Can Support Seniors During Exercise

Home care providers trained in Parkinson’s care can offer invaluable support for exercise routines, including the following:

Motivation and Accountability: Maintaining an exercise routine can be challenging, especially when dealing with fluctuating symptoms. Home care providers offer encouragement, help establish consistent schedules, and provide the accountability needed to stay active. They can also recognize when seniors are having good days to maximize exercise opportunities.
Environmental Modifications: Home care professionals can assess the living space and suggest modifications to create a safer exercise environment. This might include removing trip hazards, improving lighting, or recommending adaptive equipment that makes exercise more accessible.
Assistance with Daily Activities: With home care’s help with other daily tasks, seniors can preserve their energy for exercise. This support ensures that fatigue from household chores doesn’t interfere with their commitment to staying active.

Exercise remains one of the most powerful tools for managing Parkinson’s disease. With proper guidelines and the right support system, including professional home care, seniors with Parkinson’s can maintain active, fulfilling lives while managing their condition effectively.