Relationships & Young Onset PD
- 9 minutes ago
- 1 min read
As Parkinson's disease progresses, relationships can become multi-layered, and partners often take on a greater supportive role over time. For younger couples, this journey often unfolds alongside other significant life commitments such as raising children, building careers, or pursuing education.
It is common for couples managing a chronic condition to find that their relationship dynamic evolves over time, and while relationships are deeply personal, many couples find it helpful to establish additional ways to maintain closeness and connection. Recent research highlights that open and honest communication between partners is one of the most helpful things to sustain mutual understanding when navigating young-onset Parkinson's disease.
Every couple's experience is unique, though it can be helpful to remember these experiences are shared by many and support is available. Speaking with your support team or connecting with others through Parkinson's support networks can be valuable ways to find guidance that suits your relationship and your needs.
If you or your loved one is currently navigating a diagnosis of young onset PD, you can find additional support and resources as well as peer guidance at the Young Onset Parkinson’s Exchange:
References:
Kapelle, W. M., Geerlings, A. D., Mutsaers, I., Bloem, B. R., Meinders, M. J., & Post, B. (2024). Unveiling the invisible: a qualitative interview study on the impact of young onset Parkinson's disease on (ex-partners). Journal of neurology, 271(8), 5312–5325. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00415-024-12474-2
