Parkinson's Resource Directory
A curated guide to the organizations, programs, and communities that can help you โ wherever you are in your Parkinson's journey.
Finding the right support after a Parkinson's diagnosis โ for yourself or someone you love โ can feel overwhelming. This directory cuts through the noise. Each entry tells you what the organization does best and, most importantly, whether it's the right fit for your situation. No organization does everything, and that's okay. Use this as your map.
Research-Focused OrganizationsThese organizations are primarily focused on funding and advancing scientific research toward better treatments and a cure.
Lianna's Pick โ Community RootedAmerican Parkinson Disease Association (APDA)
USAOne of the oldest PD organizations in the U.S., APDA has invested over $65 million in research since 1961 and maintains 9 Centers for Advanced Research. But what truly sets APDA apart is its grassroots structure โ a nationwide network of local chapters with real people on the ground offering support groups, wellness classes, education events, and genuine community connection. APDA is also an active advocacy organization, fighting for policies that improve the lives of people with Parkinson's at the national level.
For you if: You want more than a website โ you want real people, real connection, and real local support. If you've ever felt alone in your Parkinson's journey, start here.
I work with APDA and can tell you firsthand: the love and care this organization has for the Parkinson's community is genuine, deep, and consistent. What makes them truly special is that they have people on the ground โ in communities across the country โ who show up for patients and caregivers in a way that most organizations simply cannot.
Cure Parkinson's
United KingdomA UK charity laser-focused on finding treatments that slow, stop, or reverse Parkinson's. Known for their drug repurposing approach โ testing existing approved drugs for PD benefit, which can be faster and cheaper than developing new ones. They fund research globally and collaborate internationally.
For you if: You're in the UK, or interested in research that takes a creative, accelerated approach to finding treatments. Worth following even outside the UK.
Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research
USA (Global reach)The world's largest private funder of Parkinson's research. Founded by Michael J. Fox after his own early-onset diagnosis, MJFF is known for moving fast, funding bold science, and keeping patients at the center. Their PPMI study is one of the most important biomarker research projects ever undertaken. They also run Fox Trial Finder to help people participate in clinical trials.
For you if: You want to stay on top of cutting-edge research, participate in a clinical trial, or contribute to science that could benefit future generations.
MJFF is one of the most patient-focused research organizations I've encountered. They don't just fund science โ they communicate it clearly to real people. Their website is genuinely readable.
Parkinson's Foundation
USA (Global network)Formed in 2016 from the merger of two 1957 organizations, the Parkinson's Foundation has invested over $474 million in research. Their Centers of Excellence network spans 60 medical centers worldwide. Their Parkinson's Outcomes Project is the largest clinical study of PD ever conducted. They also offer a helpline, educational programs, and local chapter events.
For you if: You want access to a leading specialist through their Centers of Excellence, or need a reliable, comprehensive educational library.
Patient Support & Living WellThese organizations focus on helping people live as fully as possible with Parkinson's โ today, not just in the future.
Lianna's Pick โ Community RootedAmerican Parkinson Disease Association (APDA)
USAOne of the oldest PD organizations in the U.S., APDA has invested over $65 million in research since 1961 and maintains 9 Centers for Advanced Research. But what truly sets APDA apart is its grassroots structure โ a nationwide network of local chapters with real people on the ground offering support groups, wellness classes, education events, and genuine community connection. APDA is also an active advocacy organization, fighting for policies that improve the lives of people with Parkinson's at the national level.
For you if: You want more than a website โ you want real people, real connection, and real local support. If you've ever felt alone in your Parkinson's journey, start here.
I work with APDA and can tell you firsthand: the love and care this organization has for the Parkinson's community is genuine, deep, and consistent. What makes them truly special is that they have people on the ground โ in communities across the country โ who show up for patients and caregivers in a way that most organizations simply cannot.
Davis Phinney Foundation
USA (International ambassadors)Founded by Olympic cyclist Davis Phinney, who lives with Parkinson's, this foundation is built on one philosophy: living well today. They offer holistic, practical resources for every stage of PD โ from newly diagnosed to advanced โ with dedicated sections for young-onset patients and care partners. Their "Every Victory Counts" manual is one of the most beloved practical guides in the PD world. 150+ Ambassadors in 38 states and 14 countries.
For you if: You want inspiration alongside practical guidance. Especially good for care partners and anyone who values the "living well" philosophy.
The Davis Phinney Foundation has a warmth to it that larger organizations sometimes lack. Davis's personal story gives it authenticity that resonates deeply with people who are newly diagnosed.
PD Avengers
GlobalA global patient-led advocacy movement that brings together people with Parkinson's from around the world to demand faster progress on research, policy, and care. PD Avengers also aggregates PD news from around the world into one place.
For you if: You want to be an active voice in the fight against Parkinson's โ not just a recipient of care, but a force for change.
Parkinson & Movement Disorder Alliance (PMD Alliance)
USAPMD Alliance educates, empowers, and connects people across the movement disorder community. They are home to the Young Onset Parkinson's Network (YOPN), a specialized community for those diagnosed before 50. They're also active in policy advocacy.
For you if: You have young-onset Parkinson's and need peers who understand the unique challenges of balancing work, children, and a PD diagnosis.
Parkinson's Foundation
USA (Global network)Formed in 2016 from the merger of two 1957 organizations, the Parkinson's Foundation has invested over $474 million in research. Their Centers of Excellence network spans 60 medical centers worldwide. They also offer a helpline, educational programs, and local chapter events.
For you if: You want access to a leading specialist through their Centers of Excellence, or need a reliable, comprehensive educational library.
Parkinson's Resource Organization (PRO)
USAA small, independent nonprofit with a big heart. PRO's mission is making sure no one faces Parkinson's alone. Their "Wellness Village" is a free, vetted, video-driven online resource directory โ one of the most thoughtfully organized collections of PD services available.
For you if: You feel isolated and want real human connection, or you're looking for vetted local services and don't know where to start. The Wellness Village is a hidden gem.
Caregiver-Focused ResourcesCaregivers are the often-invisible backbone of the Parkinson's community. These resources are for you.
Davis Phinney Foundation โ Care Partner Hub
USAOne of the few organizations that has truly built care partner content on equal footing with patient content. Their resources help caregivers navigate daily life, manage their own wellbeing, and understand what their loved one is experiencing.
For you if: You're a caregiver who feels like you've fallen through the cracks of the support system. This is a place that actually sees you.
Parkinson's Foundation โ Care Partner Resources
USAThe Parkinson's Foundation has a dedicated section for care partners, including a helpline (1-800-4PD-INFO), online education courses, caregiver-specific support groups, and articles on the emotional, physical, and practical realities of caregiving.
For you if: You're a spouse, adult child, or friend caring for someone with PD and need practical tools plus emotional validation. The helpline is a real person, not a recording.
Exercise & Movement ProgramsExercise is one of the only interventions shown to slow PD progression. These programs make it accessible, structured, and even fun.
Dance for PD
International affiliatesA program of the Mark Morris Dance Group, Dance for PD uses dance to address PD symptoms including balance, gait, and mood. Classes are adaptive, joyful, and welcoming to all ability levels. No dance experience required. Online and in-person classes available internationally.
For you if: Boxing isn't your style but you still want to move โ beautifully, joyfully, with others. Dance for PD has transformed how many people think about what their body can still do.
Delay the Disease
USA (YMCA-based)An evidence-based fitness program developed by OhioHealth to empower people with Parkinson's to optimize physical function and delay symptom progression. Offered at YMCAs and community centers across the U.S. Classes include strength, balance, and mobility work led by certified instructors.
For you if: You're looking for a structured, professionally led group class โ especially if you're already a YMCA member or prefer a community center setting.
LSVT Global (LSVT BIG & LSVT LOUD)
International (certified providers worldwide)LSVT Global offers two gold-standard, research-backed programs. LSVT BIG focuses on large-amplitude limb movements. LSVT LOUD focuses on voice volume and clarity โ helping people reclaim their ability to communicate confidently. Both are delivered by certified therapists with decades of research behind them.
For you if: Your movements have become smaller and slower, or your voice has become softer and harder to understand. These are among the most evidence-based programs available.
PD Warrior
Australia (international online)An Australian-developed intensive neuro-rehabilitation program based on neuroplasticity principles. PD Warrior uses high-effort, PD-specific exercises to help rewire the brain and slow symptom progression. Now available online internationally.
For you if: You're in Australia or want an online exercise program with strong clinical research behind it. Particularly good for those in earlier stages who want to be proactive.
Parkinson Wellness Recovery (PWR!)
USA (certified providers worldwide)PWR! is built on the science of neuroplasticity. Their PWR!Moves program is PD-specific and trains therapists and fitness professionals worldwide. They maintain a searchable directory of certified providers and offer a virtual exercise membership.
For you if: You want to work with a certified professional who truly understands PD. Use their provider directory to find someone near you, or join their virtual membership from home.
Pedaling for Parkinson's
USA (125+ YMCA locations)Founded by Dr. Jay Alberts of the Cleveland Clinic, Pedaling for Parkinson's is based on the discovery that high-cadence stationary cycling can significantly reduce PD symptoms. Now stewarded by the Davis Phinney Foundation. Classes at 125+ YMCAs and online, including Spanish-language sessions.
For you if: You enjoy cycling or want a cardio-based exercise backed by serious neuroscience. Also good if you prefer a seated activity.
Rock Steady Boxing
International (840+ affiliates)Non-contact boxing-based fitness program designed specifically for Parkinson's. Founded by Scott Newman, who was diagnosed at 40, RSB has grown into an international nonprofit with over 840 certified affiliates worldwide. The evidence-based curriculum targets balance, coordination, strength and gait.
For you if: You want to fight back against PD in a very literal, physical way โ with others who understand exactly what you're going through. All ability levels welcome.
I have heard from so many people with Parkinson's that RSB changed their life. The combination of rigorous exercise and community belonging is something medication can't give you.
Advocacy & PolicyThese organizations work to change systems โ government policy, healthcare access, research funding โ so that everyone with PD gets the support they deserve.
Lianna's Pick โ Community RootedAmerican Parkinson Disease Association (APDA)
USAAPDA is an active advocacy organization fighting for policies that improve the lives of people with Parkinson's at the national level โ while also maintaining its beloved grassroots network of local chapters across the country. Their advocacy work addresses research funding, access to care, and quality of life for the entire PD community.
For you if: You want to support an organization that fights for Parkinson's patients both in the halls of government and on the ground in your local community.
I work with APDA and can tell you firsthand: the love and care this organization has for the Parkinson's community is genuine, deep, and consistent. Their advocacy work is as grassroots and human as everything else they do.
Parkinson's Europe
Europe (20+ countries)The only European umbrella organization for Parkinson's, representing member organizations in 20+ countries and 1.2 million Europeans with PD. For over 30 years they have campaigned for better care, lobbied the EU Parliament, and published trusted information.
For you if: You live in Europe and want your national organization to be part of something larger, or you want to understand PD healthcare access across borders.
World Parkinson Coalition (WPC)
GlobalThe only international forum that brings together all Parkinson's stakeholders โ patients, caregivers, clinicians, researchers and advocates โ under one roof. The WPC hosts a major international congress and serves as the connective tissue for the global PD community.
For you if: You want to connect with the worldwide PD community at the highest level, or you're a researcher, clinician, or organization looking for global partnership.
World Parkinson's Day Alliance
Global (80+ countries)A global coalition of PD organizations from over 80 countries, united around World Parkinson's Day on April 11. Their mission is to reduce stigma, drive awareness, and mobilize the global community to demand better research funding and care.
For you if: You want to be part of something global on April 11, or you're an organization looking to join the international awareness movement.
Young Onset Parkinson's (YOPD)Diagnosed before 50? Your needs are different โ balancing work, children, finances, identity. These resources are built for you.
Michael J. Fox Foundation
USA (Global)Michael J. Fox was 29 when diagnosed โ which is why YOPD representation is woven into everything MJFF does. Their community spaces and research focus inherently reflect the experience of younger people with PD.
For you if: You draw strength from knowing someone else in the public eye has lived this story โ and made something powerful out of it.
Young Onset Parkinson's Network (YOPN)
USAA program of PMD Alliance specifically for people diagnosed with Parkinson's under age 50. YOPN connects people who understand what it means to navigate a career, raise children, and manage a progressive disease simultaneously.
For you if: You were diagnosed young and feel like you don't fit in with older PD communities. You need peers who get it โ the work stress, the family conversations, the feeling that this wasn't supposed to happen yet.
Outside the United StatesParkinson's is a global disease. Here are key organizations serving communities around the world.
Fight Parkinson's
AustraliaOne of Australia's leading Parkinson's charities, Fight Parkinson's provides support services, exercise programs, and research funding. They are particularly well known for their exercise programs and community-based approach to helping people live well with PD.
For you if: You're in Victoria, Australia and want strong local support combined with a focus on exercise and active living.
International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society (MDS)
Global (12,000+ professionals)A global society of 12,000+ clinicians, scientists, and healthcare professionals dedicated to advancing the field through research and education. Not a patient organization โ but their journals, guidelines, and clinical standards shape the care every person with PD receives worldwide.
For you if: You're a healthcare professional or researcher working in PD, or you want to understand the clinical standards that shape your care.
Malaysian Parkinson's Disease Association (MPDA)
MalaysiaMalaysia's national Parkinson's organization, providing support, education, and community connection for people with Parkinson's and their families. MPDA works to raise awareness of PD in Malaysia and improve access to information and care across the country.
For you if: You're in Malaysia and need a local community and support network that understands your healthcare context.
Parkinson Canada
CanadaThe national organization for Canadians living with Parkinson's, providing research funding, education, a helpline, and advocacy at the federal level. They have regional chapters and support groups across the country.
For you if: You're in Canada and want an organization that understands your healthcare system and speaks to your government on your behalf.
Parkinson's Africa
AfricaA patient advocacy organization dedicated to supporting and empowering Africans impacted by Parkinson's โ including families, friends, and caregivers. Parkinson's is significantly underdiagnosed across Africa, and organizations like this are essential to changing that reality.
For you if: You or someone you love has Parkinson's in Africa and you need community, information, and advocacy tailored to your context.
Parkinson's Australia
AustraliaThe national advocacy body for Australians with Parkinson's, their families, carers, and health professionals. They submit to parliament, commission research, and advocate for best-practice care. Their YOP-X app is specifically designed for young-onset Australians.
For you if: You're in Australia and want a national voice working for systemic change on your behalf.
Parkinson's New Zealand
New ZealandThe only national charitable trust in New Zealand providing information, education, and support for people with Parkinson's, their carers, whฤnau and health professionals. Their Parkinson's Educators offer home visits, phone and video call support, and referrals.
For you if: You're in New Zealand and want personalized, community-based support โ including home visits from a Parkinson's Educator who comes to you.
Parkinson's UK
United KingdomThe UK's largest Parkinson's charity and the largest charitable funder of PD research in the UK (ยฃ50M+ invested). They support 350 local groups across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Their Brain Bank at Imperial College London provides tissue to researchers globally.
For you if: You live in the UK and want both world-class research funding and a local support group you can walk to.
Parkinson's Disease & Movement Disorder Society (PDMDS)
IndiaIndia's leading organization for Parkinson's disease and movement disorders, providing education, support groups, and advocacy for a country where PD is significantly underdiagnosed and underserved.
For you if: You're in India and looking for support, community, and information in a country where Parkinson's resources have historically been hard to find.
Women & Parkinson's DiseaseResources and programs that recognize what too many still don't: women experience Parkinson's differently โ and deserve support that reflects that.
A personal note from Lianna
Why Women and Parkinson's Is So Close to My Heart
My mom, Val, was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 1991. She lived with it for 30 years โ the last eight also navigating dementia. I was her caregiver, her advocate, her companion through every stage of that long and often difficult journey. She is my greatest inspiration, and the reason I do everything I do.
What I witnessed over those three decades โ and what I continue to hear from women across the Parkinson's community โ is that women's experiences are too often invisible in this disease. Women are less likely to be accurately diagnosed. They tend to report different symptoms than men, experience greater medication side effects, and are far more likely to attend medical appointments alone. Research has historically underrepresented women. And yet the conversation around these disparities is still far too quiet.
I watched my mom navigate all of this. I saw what it cost her โ and what it cost our family. When I founded AllAboutParkinsons.com in 2005, I made a promise to her that I would help make this journey easier for others. This Women & Parkinson's section is part of that promise.
There is no single organization that has fully claimed this space โ which is exactly why I believe it matters so much that we build it together here. The resources below are the best of what exists. I hope they help you feel less alone.
โ Lianna Marie
What the Research Tells Us About Women and Parkinson's
Women are less likely to be accurately diagnosed with PD, often facing longer delays than men- Women report different symptoms and greater medication side effects, including more dyskinesias
- Women with PD are more likely to attend medical appointments alone โ without a care partner
- Women experience greater hormonal influences on PD symptoms, particularly around menstruation and menopause
- Women with PD are less likely to seek or receive care from a specialist such as a neurologist
- Women remain underrepresented in Parkinson's research studies
- Over 400,000 women in the U.S. alone are living with Parkinson's disease
Women & PDDavis Phinney Foundation โ YOPD Women's Council
USAA dedicated series within the Davis Phinney Foundation specifically for women diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson's. The YOPD Women's Council addresses the unique challenges younger women face: contraception, pregnancy, menstruation, menopause, hormones, body image, career, relationships, and aging with PD.
For you if: You're a woman diagnosed with PD before 50 and need resources that speak to your stage of life โ not just your diagnosis.
Women & PDDavis Phinney Foundation โ Women's Support Group Guide
USAThe Davis Phinney Foundation offers a free downloadable guide โ "How to Start a Women's Only Parkinson's Support Group" โ created because women experience and communicate about Parkinson's differently than men. A practical facilitator's guide to help communities create their own women-only group.
For you if: You want to start a women's-only PD support group in your community and don't know where to begin. This free guide walks you through everything.
Women & PDParkinson's Foundation โ Women & PD Initiative
USAThe Parkinson's Foundation has led the most comprehensive national effort to address gender disparities in PD research and care. Their Women and PD TALK project convened 10 regional forums โ bringing together women with Parkinson's and healthcare professionals to create the first-ever patient-centered research and care agenda for women with PD.
For you if: You want research and resources that specifically reflect your experience as a woman with PD โ including information on medication side effects, hormonal influences, and navigating appointments alone.
Women & PDParkinson's Women Support
USA (California-based, online community)Believed to be one of the first women-only Parkinson's support groups in the world, Parkinson's Women Support began as a small lunch group in California and has grown into a pioneering community. They partner with Stanford Parkinson's Community Outreach on a regular women's support group.
For you if: You've sat in a general PD support group and felt like your experience wasn't quite reflected. This is a place where women can talk openly about the things that often go unspoken.
Women & PDWomen with Parkinson's Community Network
USAA dedicated community network within the Parkinson's Foundation for women living with PD. With more than 400,000 women living with PD in the U.S., this network creates a vital space for women to connect, learn, share, and collaborate. Members participate in quarterly virtual calls and help shape the network's annual priorities.
For you if: You want to connect with other women who truly understand your experience โ a community built specifically around the journey of women with Parkinson's.
About This Directory
Parkinson's disease organizations, programs, and support resources from around the world are covered in this directory โ researched and curated by Lianna Marie, nurse, author, and Parkinson's advocate. Lianna founded AllAboutParkinsons.com in 2005 after caring for her mother Val, who lived with Parkinson's for 30 years, and is the author of Everything You Need to Know About Parkinson's Disease, an international bestseller read by patients and caregivers worldwide.
For more Parkinson's support and information, explore these resources on AllAboutParkinsons.com:
- Research Updates โ the latest Parkinson's research news, explained in plain language
- Inspiration โ stories of hope and resilience from the Parkinson's community
- Get 67 Practical Tips for People With Parkinson's โ a free guide packed with practical advice for daily living with Parkinson's
- About Lianna Marie โ learn more about the author and her personal Parkinson's journey
Have a suggestion for an organization to add? Contact us.
