There are numerous studies that it is prevalent in Parkinson’s, in the beginning stages, for cognitive dysfunctionality and most profound in tasks of executive function. It may be beneficial if a daily schedule or course of action is developed. This will be advantageous in focusing of energy and time as well as a structure to the day. The person with PD should make the schedule if possible. With time this may require assistance but they should be part of the planning processes.

There is a high likelihood the person with Parkinson’s, as the disease progresses, will attempt to distance themselves from societal interaction and develop into apathetic. With the advancing symptoms there certainly might be a disposition not to preserve motivation and relationships with family and friends. Plan the day and manage the plan to sustain involvement in daily living.

This is the old saying “Plan to work and work the Plan” this will provide purpose as well as structure to manage the disease to achieve a quality of life and maintained. Some things to consider:

It is really critical when the medications are taken?  If necessary use and egg timer or set your mobile phone for an alarm. You don’t want to be tardy on specific medications and have down or “off” periods since you didn’t plan.

Just as it is essential to have a routine for bed it is just as important to have a routine for the morning and getting the day started. Establish a schedule beginning with time to get up.

Develop a regimen for the bathroom and dressing, if there is a specific event, occasion or celebration then prepare with the schedule, take confusion and frustration out of the day.

Exercise needs to be, has to be, a component of the daily schedule in order to manage the disease and have a quality of life. Establish an exercise routine, which should incorporate being outside if possible and weather permits. Remember sunlight is vitamin D which is essential.

What are the daily chores that need to be attended too? This is important that the person with Parkinson’s contributed to what they can manage to maintain independence.

Are you volunteering? Consequently it is now a component of the schedule of that day’s activities, whether for church, civic or social these are important activities.

Meals, breakfast, lunch and dinner, when, where and what time. These are all important components of a daily schedule especially in relationship to timing of medications as well as social interaction.

Nap time, important in time and duration, you don’t want to disturb sleeping at night by taking a nap later or too long or altering the time for bed.

Social time, what do you have planned, when and with whom. Keep an active social calendar.

These are a few suggestions for scheduling the day. It helps and it is important.

Manage the day to manage the disease for a quality of life.