Living with Parkinson’s is about much more than managing tremors or medication schedules. It affects every part of life, including relationships, social connections, and intimacy. While these topics may not always come up in doctor’s offices, research shows they are crucial for mental and physical well-being. 

The Science of Social Connection: Why Relationships Matter

Humans are wired for connection. Studies consistently show that strong social support improves health outcomes in chronic conditions, including Parkinson’s. Social engagement can influence both motor and non-motor symptoms, helping people maintain a better quality of life.

A 2021 study published in Neurology found that people with Parkinson’s who had strong social support experienced:

• Slower disease progression
• Better mental health outcomes
• Higher quality of life

Another study published in NPJ Parkinson’s Disease (2022) found that social engagement is linked to better cognitive function and mobility. Researchers observed that people with PD who regularly participated in social activities had a 40% lower risk of cognitive decline over five years (Cochrane et al., 2022).

However, Parkinson’s presents challenges that can make maintaining relationships difficult. Symptoms like fatigue, speech difficulties, and motor impairments may create barriers to socializing. Anxiety and depression, both common in PD, further contribute to feelings of isolation.

For those looking to build connections within the Parkinson’s community, the PD Buddy app offers a great way to find and connect with others who share similar interests. Through the app, people can join chat groups, find nearby individuals with Parkinson’s, and discover local events and activities to attend together. One of the key benefits of digital tools like PD Buddy is that they allow people to make these connections on their own time and at their own pace, providing the comfort and flexibility to engage when they feel ready. Whether it’s making new friends, sharing experiences, or simply finding a walking or exercise partner, PD Buddy makes socialising easier and more accessible. Staying engaged in social activities can make a significant difference in emotional well-being, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Loneliness & Parkinson’s: A Real but Solvable Problem

Loneliness is more than just an emotional burden—it has real, physical consequences. A 2023 study in The Lancet Healthy Longevity found that social isolation was linked to faster cognitive decline and increased motor difficulties in people with Parkinson’s (Chen et al., 2023).

People with Parkinson’s are at a higher risk of loneliness for several reasons:

• Reduced mobility may limit participation in social activities.
• Speech changes can make conversations challenging.
• Depression and anxiety can make reaching out to others feel overwhelming.

How to Stay Socially Connected

✔ Be honest about your needs. If friends and family don’t understand what you’re going through, educating them can help them provide better support. ✔ Join a Parkinson’s support group. Whether online or in-person, connecting with people who understand your journey can be a game-changer. (Check out Parkinson’s UK, Davis Phinney Foundation, and Michael J. Fox Foundation, PD Buddy app for support groups.) ✔ Try new social settings. If large gatherings feel overwhelming, smaller meetups or virtual groups may be more comfortable.

Sex, Intimacy & Parkinson’s: The Elephant in the Room

Parkinson’s can affect intimacy, but that doesn’t mean love and passion disappear. In fact, research suggests that maintaining intimacy can boost mental health and even improve symptom management.

A 2022 study in The Journal of Parkinson’s Disease found that sexual activity was associated with improved mood, better sleep and enhanced motor function (Fabbri et al., 2022)

Common Sexuality-Related Challenges in Parkinson’s

1. Changes in Libido: Parkinson’s affects dopamine levels, which can alter sex drive. Some people experience reduced libido, while others (especially those on dopamine agonists) may experience an increase. 2. Physical Barriers: Stiffness, tremors, and fatigue can make intimacy physically challenging. Adapting positions, pacing intimacy, and using assistive supports can help. 3. Emotional Barriers: Anxiety, depression, or body image concerns can make intimacy difficult. Open communication with a partner is essential to maintaining closeness.

Pro tip: The 2022 study also found that couples who communicated openly about changes in intimacy reported higher relationship satisfaction.

Resource: Love, Sex, and Parkinson’s Podcast by Davis Phinney Foundation

Love & Parkinson’s: It’s a Team Effort

Whether in a long-term relationship, dating, or re-entering the world of romance post-diagnosis, Parkinson’s doesn’t mean the end of love. It simply means adapting.

❤️ For couples: Approach Parkinson’s as a team. Instead of seeing it as your disease or their disease, treat it as a shared challenge. For those dating: Be upfront about your diagnosis when you feel comfortable. Let potential partners see you first, not just Parkinson’s. For everyone: Prioritize emotional intimacy. Holding hands, hugging, and spending quality time together can be just as powerful as physical intimacy.

Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone

Parkinson’s presents unique challenges, but relationships—whether friendships, family bonds, or romantic connections—are still very much possible. If you’re struggling with loneliness or intimacy, know that you’re not alone.

At the end of the day, Parkinson’s is part of your life, but it doesn’t define your ability to love and be loved. ❤️

Additional Resources:

• Michael J. Fox Foundation: Social & Emotional Support
• Davis Phinney Foundation: Intimacy & Parkinson's
• Parkinson's UK: Relationships & Communication
• PD Buddy app available on Apple and Play stores, free for people with PD and caregivers