Pearls for Parkinson's with Dacy Reimer
Weekly Tips for Daily Living with Parkinson’sWe are excited to share a new series called Pearls for Parkinson’s: Tips for Daily Living with Parkinson’s. This is the latest addition to our educational resources, which also includes our monthly podcast entitled: EmPower Talks: Insights from the Experts.In these new episodes, Dacy Reimer, MSN, APRN-NP, CCRC, Wisconsin Parkinson Association's President & CEO and WPA podcast host shares tips and “pearls” of wisdom for making daily living with your Parkinson’s journey just a little easier. The episodes will be short format, usually five minutes or less.These easy-to-listen-to “pearls” air every Monday...
Why Are My Legs Swelling?
Swollen feet or ankles may not seem connected to Parkinson’s - however, sometimes there is a connection.
In this week’s Pearls for Parkinson’s, “Why Are My Legs Swelling?”, we talk about how reduced movement can contribute to swelling, which Parkinson’s medications may play a role, and simple strategies that may help.
Most importantly, we cover when leg swelling shouldn't be assumed to be Parkinson’s and needs medical attention.
Listen for practical tips and signs to watch for.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https...
Medication Timing Matters
With Parkinson’s medication, when you take it can matter almost as much as remembering to take it.
This week on Pearls for Parkinson’s, we're talking about “Medication Timing Matters.”
We cover keeping levodopa on schedule, when protein may affect how well it works, why iron deserves some attention, and how tracking when your medication kicks in and wears off can help your provider better understand your day.
Small changes in awareness can help you get more from your medication routine.
To watch this episode on YouTube...
When Parkinson's Gets Worse
A sudden increase in Parkinson’s symptoms doesn't always mean the disease has progressed.
Illness, infection, dehydration, medication disruptions, and other medical problems can temporarily make Parkinson’s symptoms much more noticeable.
This week on Pearls for Parkinson’s, we talk about “When Parkinson’s Gets Worse” and why a sudden change should make us investigate further.
Learn what to watch for and why getting back to baseline may start with finding the underlying cause.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/CqV2UpulgD8
Wisconsin P...
Getting Out of Bed
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/FUp13he3OwY
Getting out of bed can require a little more strategy when you have Parkinson’s.
In this week’s Pearls for Parkinson’s, “Getting Out of Bed,” we break down a simple way to use bigger movements and rotation to make rolling and getting up easier.
Plus, we share a surprisingly simple tip involving silk or satin that may help you turn more easily at night. Just rememb...
Are You Wearing Off?
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/9m8eJXWwfP4
Wearing OFF isn't always about becoming slower or stiffer.
Sometimes it shows up as anxiety, fatigue, pain, brain fog, or simply feeling like something isn't quite right.
In this week’s Pearls for Parkinson’s, “Are You Wearing Off?”, we talk about some of the less-obvious signs of OFF time and one of the best tools for recognizing it: looking for patterns around your medication schedule. A few simpl...
Feeling Short of Breath
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Osx9lo-6GGg
Can Parkinson’s affect your breathing?
Sometimes - but shortness of breath should never automatically be blamed on Parkinson’s.
This week on Pearls for Parkinson’s, we look at “Feeling Short of Breath” and how posture, OFF periods, anxiety, and even dyskinesia involving the breathing muscles may play a role.
Learn what patterns to watch for - and when breathing changes need medical attention.<...
When Hands Slow Down
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/lMU0G4gP3M0
Buttoning a shirt. Sending a text. Handling coins. Using utensils.
With Parkinson’s, changes in hand movement can make everyday tasks take a little more time and attention.
In this week’s Pearls for Parkinson’s, we’re talking about “When Hands Slow Down” - what bradykinesia can look like in your hands, what we're looking for when we test finger tapping in the clinic, and practical...
Why Mornings Are Hard
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/nm3vfwCDh8o
Mornings can be tough with Parkinson’s. You may wake up feeling especially stiff, slow, or like your body just isn’t ready to move.
In this week’s Pearls for Parkinson’s, we’re talking about “Why Mornings Are Hard” - including early morning akinesia, nighttime “off” symptoms, medication timing, and simple strategies that may help you get your day started a little easier.
Listen for practical tips on what to track, what...
Why Standing Up Feels Like Climbing A Mountain
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/zk24nrgQx2M
Why can something as simple as getting out of a chair feel like so much work with Parkinson’s?
In this week’s Pearls for Parkinson’s, we’re breaking down why standing up can become more difficult - and sharing a few simple techniques that can make the movement easier and safer.
Scoot forward. Feet back. Nose over toes. Forward and up.
Small changes i...
Restless Legs or Parkinson's? Knowing the Difference
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/xhJVHWhTEVM
Restless legs can be frustrating - especially when you’re finally ready to sleep.
But is it restless legs syndrome, Parkinson’s stiffness, dystonia, or medication wearing off?
In this week’s Pearls for Parkinson’s, we talk about the clues that can help you tell the difference, what patterns to watch for, and a few simple things that may help settle your legs at night.
Sometimes the best firs...
Finding Your Mental Reset Button
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/IWG2ljs5aHI
Some days, Parkinson’s just wears on you.
When frustration, worry, or overwhelm starts to take over, having a mental reset button can help. Maybe it’s stepping outside, taking a short walk, listening to music, calling someone who makes you laugh, or simply giving yourself a few quiet minutes.
This week on Pearls for Parkinson’s, we’re sharing simple ways to reset an emotionally difficult...
Hearing and PD
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/sAm1DCxWj5g
Have you ever felt like conversations have become more difficult, especially in restaurants, family gatherings, or other noisy places?
Many people with Parkinson's are surprised to learn that it isn't always their hearing that's changed - it can be how the brain processes sound. Parkinson's can make it harder to filter out background noise, making conversations more tiring and sometimes frustrating.
In this week's Pearls for Parkinson's, we e...
Heat Intolerance
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/WQmkoD0zZH4
Does the summer heat seem to make your Parkinson's symptoms worse?
Heat intolerance is common in Parkinson's, but understanding why it happens can help you stay active and safe. In this episode, we discuss hydration, cooling strategies, medication timing, and practical ways to enjoy summer while managing the heat.
A little planning can go a long way.
Listen now and share this episode with someone who may be spending m...
Hand Dexterity
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/gXUfSom-Jrg
Has buttoning a shirt, writing a note, or opening a package become more frustrating than it used to be?
In this week's Pearls for Parkinson's, we explore how Parkinson's affects hand dexterity and share practical tips to help make everyday tasks easier - from simple hand movements and handwriting strategies to adaptive tools that can help you maintain your independence.
Small adjustments can make a big difference.
Listen now and s...
Dental Health and Parkinson's
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/au9AOJcc_7Y
Dental health is an important part of Parkinson's care, but it's often overlooked.
In this week's Pearls for Parkinson's, we discuss how Parkinson's can affect brushing, flossing, swallowing, dry mouth, and routine dental visits. You'll also hear practical tips - including a simple water flosser trick that might make your daily routine a little easier.
Taking care of your smile is another way of taking care of your overall health.
Managing Sensory Fatigue
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/igp-4LNcRlQ
Have you ever felt completely exhausted after a trip to the grocery store, a family gathering, or a noisy restaurant, even though you didn't do much physically?
For many people living with Parkinson's, sensory fatigue is real. The brain works harder to process busy environments, conversations, lights, and background noise, leaving you mentally drained.
This week on Pearls for Parkinson's, we share practical tips to help you:
* Recognize sensory ove...
Shopping with Parkinson's
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/BzNh-_oYV5k
A trip to the grocery store, pharmacy, or shopping center can be more challenging when living with Parkinson’s disease. Crowds, long walks, fatigue, busy environments, and carrying purchases can quickly turn a simple errand into an exhausting experience.
In this week’s Pearls for Parkinson’s, we share practical strategies to make shopping easier and less stressful. Learn tips for planning ahead, shopping during your best “ON” times, managing fatigue, navigating crowded spa...
Simplifying Your Wallet or Handbag
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/G6cooYkJQs4
Sometimes the smallest changes can make everyday tasks a little easier. If you're carrying a wallet or purse packed with old receipts, unused cards, and extra clutter, it may be time for a simple refresh.
In this week’s Pearls for Parkinson’s, we share practical tips for organizing and simplifying your wallet or handbag to make paying for purchases, finding important information, and managing daily errands less frustrating. From reducing clutter to creat...
Visual Hallucinations
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZATxRp5cLGI
Visual hallucinations can be one of the more confusing and isolating symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease. While not everyone experiences them, they are more common than many people realize and can range from seeing shadows or movement in the corner of your eye to seeing people, animals, or objects that aren’t there.
In this week’s Pearls for Parkinson’s, we discuss what visual hallucinations are, why they can occur in Parkinson...
Making Your Cell Phone Work for You
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/nryKChbzaj8
Your cell phone can be more than a way to stay connected - it can be a powerful tool to help make daily life with Parkinson’s a little easier.
In this week’s Pearls for Parkinson’s, we share simple ways to use your phone to work for you. Small technology adjustments can help reduce stress, increase confidence, and promote independence. Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been living with Parkinson’s for years, th...
Let's Talk About Intimacy
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/FhqS_ejr1Dk
Parkinson’s can affect many aspects of life - including intimacy and close relationships - but it’s a topic that often goes unspoken.
Changes in movement, fatigue, mood, sleep, medications, and confidence can all influence intimacy. The good news is that these challenges are common, and there are ways to navigate them together.
In this week’s Pearls for Parkinson’s, we’re having an honest conversation about intimacy, communicati...
Grandparenting with PD
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/lkaM5Kj6RRg
Grandchildren don’t need perfection or endless energy - they need you.
This week on Pearls for Parkinson’s, we talk about meaningful ways to stay connected with younger and adult grandchildren when Parkinson’s changes stamina or energy.
Wisconsin Parkinson Association
website: https://wiparkinson.org/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wiparkinson
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wiparkinson/
instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wiparkinson/
Getting In and Out of the Car
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/TMTCmbMIlbs
Sometimes the hardest part of the outing isn’t where you’re going - it’s getting in and out of the car.
This week on Pearls for Parkinson’s, we share simple tips for easier transfers, less stiffness during rides, medication timing, and tools that can make travel more manageable.
Small strategies can make a big difference.
Wisconsin Parkinson Association
website: https://wiparkinson.org/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com...
Spring Cleaning with Parkinson's
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MiyWaV9frR8
Does spring cleaning feel more exhausting than it used to? You’re not imagining it.
This week on Pearls for Parkinson’s, we talk about smart ways to clean with Parkinson’s - saving energy, reducing fall risks, using better timing, and making your home work better for you now.
You don’t need to clean harder. You need to clean smarter.
Wisconsin Parkinson Associati...
Gardening and Yard Work with Parkinson's
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/W14wFLG5Tk4
Spring is here - and so is gardening season. But if Parkinson’s has changed how yard work feels, you are not alone.
This week on Pearls for Parkinson’s, we share practical tips to garden smarter, stay safer, conserve energy, and still enjoy the peace and purpose that comes from being outside.
Wisconsin Parkinson Association
website: https://wiparkinson.org/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wiparkinson
fa...
Bladder Issues: Is it PD?
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/skiqm7W8QPU
Not every bladder symptom is Parkinson’s.
And sometimes, that assumption can cause us to miss something important.
In this episode of Pearls for Parkinson’s, we talk about:
When bladder changes are expected in Parkinson’sWhen something might be differentAnd why it’s important to take a closer lookListen in to better understand what your body may be telling you - and when it’s time to speak up...
Urinary Urgency
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/UZpfTOLFaOI
Have you ever experienced that moment when you feel the urge and think…
“I’m not going to make it.”
This is something many people with Parkinson’s experience - but don’t always talk about.
It’s not just about the bladder.
It’s about timing.
In this episode of Pearls for Parkinson’s, we talk about why this happens and simple, practical ways to stay one step ahead...
The Nighttime Bathroom Marathon (Nocturia)
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/g_A2jah1LVY
Are you up multiple times a night to use the bathroom?
Are you waking up exhausted?
There’s actually a reason this happens in Parkinson’s - and it’s not just your bladder.
In this episode of Pearls for Parkinson’s, we talk about what’s happening in the body overnight and how a few small changes can make a big difference.
Take a few...
Urinary Frequency
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/H9fjA2RQWX8
Going to the bathroom more often than you used to?
Feeling like you just went… and need to go again?
In this episode of Pearls for Parkinson’s, we break down why urinary frequency happens in Parkinson’s and a few simple strategies that can help you feel more in control.
Listen now to learn what’s really going on - and what you can do about it.
...
Facial Expression Changes
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/w8EuKdN_M1Y
Have you ever been told, “You look tired,” or “Are you upset?” - when you’re not?
Facial expression changes are common in Parkinson’s. It’s not about how you feel. It’s about how the muscles of the face move.
In this week’s Pearls for Parkinson’s: Tips for Daily Living with Parkinson's, we’re talking about:
• Why expression changes happen
• How this affects communication
• Simple...
Tools for Morning Off Time
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/xiNaWmvnskY
Mornings can be the hardest part of the day with Parkinson’s.
Before medication kicks in, everything can feel slower, stiffer, and heavier.
In this week’s Pearls for Parkinson’s: Tips for Daily Living with Parkinson's, sharing practical tools and strategies to make morning “off” time safer and more manageable:
• Bed mobility supports
• Smart chair and room setup
• Medication timing awareness
• Planning your first 30 minutes intentionally
The goal in the...
Rebuilding Confidence
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/pQdTA01q--s
Parkinson’s can quietly chip away at confidence.
But confidence isn’t lost - it can be rebuilt.
In this week’s Pearls for Parkinson’s: Tips for Daily Living with Parkinson's, we’re talking about practical ways to strengthen confidence again:
• Preparing your environment for success
• Practicing movement intentionally
• Managing symptoms proactively
Confidence doesn’t mean everything is easy.
It means you feel steady enough to try.
Choosing Chairs That Help, Not Hurt
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/tKatqI9rZ3c
The wrong chair can make standing feel harder than it needs to be.
Too low. Too soft. No armrests.
In this week’s Pearls for Parkinson’s: Tips for Daily Living with Parkinson's, we’re talking about how the right chair can actually support mobility, safety, and independence.
We’ll cover:
• The ideal chair
• Why firm cushions matter
• The importance of armrests
• Simple home adjustments that make standin...
Everyday Strategies for Drooling
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/qGEZh-4LH18
Drooling in Parkinson’s is common - and often misunderstood.
It’s not about making too much saliva.
It’s about swallowing less often.
In this week’s Pearls for Parkinson’s: Tips for Daily Living with Parkinson's, I’m talking about:
This is a topic many pe...
Temperature Dysregulation
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/CV651ZZyL88
Have you ever felt suddenly too hot… or too cold… without a clear reason?
Temperature dysregulation is a very real part of Parkinson’s. It’s not “just you.” It’s the nervous system.
This week on Pearls for Parkinson’s: Tips for Everyday Living, we're talking about:
...
Travel Devices for Bed Mobility
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/fwhU_SO_-4s
Traveling with Parkinson’s can be exciting - but unfamiliar beds can make daily routines harder than expected.
This week on Pearls for Parkinson’s: Tips for Everyday Living, I’m sharing simple, travel-friendly devices and practical positioning strategies to make getting in and out of bed safer and easier when you’re away from home.
We’ll talk about lightweight bed rails, portable strap systems, low-friction sheet ideas...
Making Sense of Pain in Parkinson’s
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/WqgKJ-fRSmc
Pain is one of the most overlooked symptoms of Parkinson’s.
It can show up as stiffness, aching, cramping, burning, or nerve-like pain—and it looks different for everyone.
In this week’s Pearls for Parkinson’s, we talk about:
• Why pain happens in Parkinson’s
• The different types of pain people experience
• How pain can change with medication timing
• Practical ways to reduce pain through movement, stretching, and daily habits
Pets and Parkinson’s: Companionship that Calms
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/y_0wkqIpdc4
Have you ever noticed how your body softens when your pet curls up beside you?
In this week’s Pearls for Parkinson’s podcast, we discuss how pets can positively affect brain chemistry. Simple moments like petting an animal or sharing a routine can support dopamine release, lower stress hormones, and improve mood and motivation.
For many people living with Parkinson’s, pets aren’t just companions - they’re gentle regulators...
Having a Winter Plan: Staying Socially Engaged
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3rYiV7Oz_lM
Winter can quietly shrink our social world—sometimes without us noticing.
In this Pearls for Parkinson’s episode, we talk about staying socially engaged during winter in ways that feel meaningful, manageable, and supportive of emotional and cognitive health.
Connection is an important part of winter planning.
Wisconsin Parkinson Association
website: https://wiparkinson.org/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wiparkinson
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wipark...
Having a Winter Plan: Walking Safely at Home
Pearls for Parkinson's: Tips for Daily Living with PD.
To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/S_hOC-JObEs
When winter limits outdoor movement, how we walk at home matters more than we realize.
This week’s Pearls for Parkinson’s episode focuses on walking safely indoors - using your space, rhythm, and awareness to maintain strength, balance, and confidence through the winter months.
Movement doesn’t have to stop when winter starts.
Wisconsin Parkinson Association
website: https://wiparkinson.org/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wiparkinson
face...
