Navigating the Festive Season with Parkinson’s

The festive season brings joy, warmth, and connection—but it can also feel overwhelming, especially for those living with Parkinson’s. Here are some practical tips to help you enjoy the celebrations while keeping stress to a minimum.

Plan Ahead for Peace of Mind

A little preparation can make the festive season more enjoyable and less hectic.

☃ Medication: Make sure you have enough medication to last through the entire festive period. This year, with Christmas Day (Thursday, 25th December) and St. Stephen’s Day (Friday, 26th December) followed by a weekend, many GP practices and pharmacies may be closed for four consecutive days. Similarly, New Year’s Day (Thursday, 1st January) is followed by a weekend, which may also affect service availability. To avoid disruptions:

🎄 Order prescriptions well in advance.

🎄 Check your pharmacist and GP’s festive opening hours.

🎄 Familiarise yourself with your GP’s out-of-hours service. Find out more about out of hours GP services here: https://www2.hse.ie/emergencies/when-to-go-to-a-gp-out-of-hours/

🎄 If you’re staying with family or friends, pack enough medication for your full visit.

🎁 Accept Help: Don’t be afraid to share the workload—whether it’s cooking, shopping, or decorating, let family and friends support you.

Diet

Mindful Eating

Seasonal treats are part of the fun, but overindulgence can leave you feeling sluggish and affect sleep and energy levels.

· For some people with Parkinson’s, high-protein foods may reduce the effectiveness of levodopa-based medications. Taking your medication 30–40 minutes before meals may help.

· Aim for a balanced diet with a variety of foods from all food groups. For more guidance, see our Eating Well with Parkinson’s booklet at www.parkinsons.ie.

Stay in Sync

During the Christmas season, it’s easy to fall out of routine due to changes in schedules, festive gatherings, and the general excitement of the holidays. Disruptions in exercise, sleep patterns, and eating habits can interfere with the careful management of Parkinson’s symptoms. Maintaining as much of your routine as possible, even during the holidays, is important to prevent a worsening of symptoms and to stay on track with your treatment plan.

Stick to Your Routine

Changes in schedules and festive gatherings can disrupt your usual habits, which may affect symptom management.

· Try to maintain regular sleep, exercise, and meal times as much as possible to stay on track with your treatment plan.

Keep Moving & Stay Motivated

Exercise plays a vital role in managing Parkinson’s—supporting mobility, mood, and overall health.

· Whether it’s a walk, online class, or dancing, choose activities that suit your energy levels and bring you joy.

· Morning exercise often works better for energy levels. Use it as a chance to connect with loved ones and boost your mental well-being.

Sleep Hygiene for Restful Nights

Quality sleep starts with good daytime habits.

· Stay physically active during the day.

· Avoid caffeine and screen time before bed.

· Create a calming bedtime routine—try a warm bath, meditation, or soothing music.

· Empty your bladder before bed to reduce nighttime interruptions.

Stay Regular

Constipation is a common challenge for people with Parkinson’s and may worsen during the festive season due to changes in routine.

· Keep active.

· Drink plenty of fluids, especially with medications like levodopa.

· Eat fibre-rich foods (vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and bran cereals).

· Follow any prescribed treatments or laxatives to avoid complications.

Ensure Safety at Home

Decorations and gatherings can introduce new hazards at home.

· Floors: Keep walkways clear of decorations, cords, and gift boxes. Secure ornaments and lights to avoid tripping.

· Lighting: Ensure hallways, stairs, and entryways are well-lit. Turn off Christmas lights and candles before bed.

· Kitchen Safety: Prep meals in advance if possible. Use timers, tidy as you go, and keep flammable items away from heat sources. Turn off appliances after use and clean up spills promptly.

With a little planning and support, the festive season can be a time of joy, comfort, and connection. Wishing you and your loved ones a safe and peaceful celebration.