APRIL IS PARKINSON’S AWARENESS MONTH

APRIL IS PARKINSON’S AWARENESS MONTH: EARLY SUPPORT HELPS PEOPLE LIVE WELL WITH PD IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month, a time to educate, empower, and encourage those impacted by Parkinson’s disease (PD) to take action early and live well. With approximately 90,000 new diagnoses in the U.S. each year—including an estimated 7,000 individuals in Southwest Florida—awareness, early intervention, and ongoing support can make a meaningful difference in quality of life.

Recognizing the Early Signs of Parkinson’s
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, balance, and coordination. Recognizing symptoms early—and seeking support right away—can significantly improve long-term outcomes, helping individuals maintain independence, mobility, and connection to their community.

Common early signs include:
● Loss of Smell – Foods lack their usual aroma or taste
● Trouble Sleeping – Sudden movements, thrashing, or acting out dreams
● Chronic Constipation – Persistent digestive issues despite a healthy diet
● Dizziness or Fainting – Sudden drops in blood pressure
● Small Handwriting (Micrographia) – Noticeable decrease in letter size

If you or a loved one experiences these symptoms, consulting a neurologist or movement disorder specialist is an important first step. Equally important is connecting early with support resources that can help guide the journey.

The Power of Early Support: Living Well with Parkinson’s
A Parkinson’s diagnosis is life-changing—but it does not have to be limiting. Research and real-life outcomes consistently show that individuals who engage early in exercise, education, and support programs experience improved physical function, stronger emotional well-being, and a greater sense of control.
The Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) plays a vital role in this journey by providing free membership and access to confidential, comprehensive, evidence-based programs designed for both individuals with PD and their care partners.

Through PASWFL, participants can:
● Stay Active – Exercise classes tailored for PD help slow progression and improve strength, balance, and mobility
● Strengthen Communication – Speech and voice programs support clarity and swallowing function
● Build Community – Support groups offer connection, encouragement, and shared experiences
● Stay Informed – Educational programs empower individuals to make confident care decisions
● Enhance Well-Being – Wellness programs support both physical and emotional health

Early participation in these programs helps individuals build routines, relationships, and resilience—leading to better long-term outcomes.

Free Membership
PASWFL invites the community to take advantage of its free membership, which provides access to all programs, services, and resources at no cost.

As part of Parkinson’s Awareness Month, PASWFL will host its annual: Living Well with PD Education Symposium
April 24, 2026

This signature event brings together leading experts, resources, and the PD community for a day of learning, connection, and empowerment. Attendees will gain valuable insights into treatment advances, symptom management, and strategies for living well at every stage of the disease. The symposium is sold out.

Join the #StrongerTogether Movement
This April, PASWFL encourages the community to take action:
● Follow PASWFL on Facebook for the latest research, resources, and events:
https://www.facebook.com/ParkinsonAssociationSWFL
● Become a member and access free programs and support https://parkinsonassociationswfl.org/signup.html
● Share information to help others recognize symptoms and seek support early
Together, we can ensure that no one faces Parkinson’s alone—and that everyone has the opportunity to live well with the right support from the start.

For more information, visit PASWFL.org or call 239-417-3465 to learn about programs or schedule an appointment.

Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida 2575 Northbrooke Plaza Drive, Suite 301, Naples, FL 34119

About the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida
For over 30 years, the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida has been dedicated to improving quality of life for individuals with Parkinson’s disease and their families through free, evidence-based programs, education, and support. By encouraging early engagement and ongoing participation, PASWFL empowers individuals to live well with Parkinson’s—ensuring that no one in our community faces this journey alone.