Ask
Would it be OK to spend a minute talking about something many patients with Parkinson’s find really helpful?
Insight
As Parkinson’s affect an individual’s physical activity beliefs and behaviours, focusing on this can be a useful way to introduce the topic.
Using a non-judgemental and respectful way to get a conversation about physical activity started can keep the individual actively engaged in the conversation and decision making.
If done successfully, a 1-minute conversation can plant the seed for successful behaviour change.
Did you know?
Evidence exists to support early introduction of exercise at the time of diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease, in addition to the clear benefit now shown in those with established disease.
Physical activity is safe for people with Parkinson’s and should be encouraged at all stages of Parkinson’s disease but especially early after diagnosis.
All physical activity counts towards moving more and in Parkinson’s, the more you put into it the greater the benefit.
Real impact
“This is the positive side of Parkinson’s: I feel fitter at 60 than when I was 40”
“I realized that my body can move pretty much more than I figured it could, or ever would’ve thought I can move it.”
“It’s never too early to start, it’s never too late to start”
Explain
Many people with Parkinson’s find that moving more helps them manage their condition and symptoms, as well as improving their general wellbeing. I wonder what you make of that?
If appropriate and time allows share one or two benefits of activity that may be relevant to your patient.
Physical activity is a key part of optimising and maintaining health for patients with Parkinson’s. Common benefits reported by people with Parkinson’s include:
Insight
Asking a question such as ‘what do you make of this’ allows some space for people to talk and explore the information rather than asking ‘do you understand?’ which can shut things down. They may already have a good understanding of the benefits of physical activity, so if you’re pressed for time you can ask it like this without patronising them and also offer the opportunity for them to tell you that they know it already.
Did you know?
Evidence exists to support early introduction of exercise at the time of diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease, in addition to the clear benefit now shown in those with established disease.
Physical activity is safe for people with Parkinson’s and should be encouraged at all stages of Parkinson’s disease but especially early after diagnosis.
All physical activity counts towards moving more and in Parkinson’s, the more you put into it the greater the benefit.
Real impact
“This is the positive side of Parkinson’s: I feel fitter at 60 than when I was 40”
“I realized that my body can move pretty much more than I figured it could, or ever would’ve thought I can move it.”
“It’s never too early to start, it’s never too late to start”
Invite
Would you be interested in talking a little more about how physical activity might help with your health and wellbeing on another visit?
Arranging follow up is important after a positively received 1-minute conversation. Offer a follow up opportunity with you or a colleague appropriate to the environment you work in and resources available.
“In the meantime I could give you some further information to read if that would be of interest”
Signpost the patient information section.
Insight
Follow up may be with you, a colleague or another service, but try to capitalise on the opportunity provided and book the next step before they leave.
If they decline a follow up appointment offer them a patient information leaflet, thank them for taking the time to talk with you about physical activity and reassure them help is available when they feel ready for change.
Did you know?
Evidence exists to support early introduction of exercise at the time of diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease, in addition to the clear benefit now shown in those with established disease.
Physical activity is safe for people with Parkinson’s and should be encouraged at all stages of Parkinson’s disease but especially early after diagnosis.
All physical activity counts towards moving more and in Parkinson’s, the more you put into it the greater the benefit.
Real impact
“This is the positive side of Parkinson’s: I feel fitter at 60 than when I was 40”
“I realized that my body can move pretty much more than I figured it could, or ever would’ve thought I can move it.”
“It’s never too early to start, it’s never too late to start”