As we continue to navigate life during these uncertain times, it is important to know that Penn’s Parkinson’s Disease & Movement Disorders Center (PD&MDC) is here to help all patients—whether you are new to Penn or in need of follow-up care.
“I have never known a time when our world, our city, our hospital, our department, our staff and our patients and care partners were so challenged. The effects of COVID-19 are making themselves felt throughout the world, and we are doing what we can to adjust minute-by-minute,” said Andrew Siderowf, MD, director of PD&MDC.
“We are working to find ways to continue to provide world-class care in this new and changing environment. Your in-person PD&MDC doctor visit may be converted to a remote ‘telemedicine’ visit. We will be monitoring this situation closely and will update our practices as appropriate.”
Dr. Siderowf offers advice on how to protect yourself against COVID-19 and how it affects patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD).
How Does COVID-19 affect Patients with Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders do not directly affect the immune system. "As a result, our patients are not inherently more susceptible to the coronavirus,” Dr. Siderowf said. “However, some of our patients may be older, frail or have other medical conditions that do increase the risk from infection.”
How Can Patients with Parkinson’s Disease Protect Themselves from COVID-19?
If you have Parkinson’s disease, you can help protect yourself from COVID-19 by:
- Washing your hands frequently
- Avoiding touching your face
- Practicing social distancing
- Not shaking hands
- Avoiding large gatherings
“If we all follow these measures, the virus will spread more slowly and affect fewer people over the course of the outbreak,” Dr. Sideworf said. “From our own daily activities, to caring for our community, we are all being urged to make new choices and think seriously about the ramifications of everything we do.”
How Can Patients with Parkinson’s Disease Stay Safe During COVID-19?
If you are living with PD, here are some precautions you can take to stay safe during COVID-19:
- Take inventory of your medications.
- Create a medication list and customize a schedule.
- Make sure all your medications are up-to-date and that you are not running low.
- Make a list of your doctors.
- Write down your doctors’ contact information and carry it with you at all times.
- In case of an emergency, carry an “Aware in Care Kit” with you to help educate first responders and health care professionals about your PD needs. Always have your medical alert card handy.
- Create a COVID-19 preparedness fact sheet.
- In the case that you are hospitalized during COVID-19, a fact check sheet is a useful tool to inform health care professionals about your condition and needs during the pandemic.
- Be aware of community response plans:
- Check your state’s emergency response plan and stay on top of COVID-19 outbreaks in your community.
Visit the Parkinson’s Foundation website for more information on these and other resources for managing your PD during COVID-19.
What Can I Do To Manage My Mental Health During COVID-19?
Being in tune with your mental health is just as important as protecting your physical health, especially during these times.
Coronavirus has changed many aspects of our lives, and it’s normal to feel stressed or anxious. While these reactions are common, they can take a toll on your mental health.
Here are some tips that can help improve your mental health and well-being:
Penn Medicine is here for you. If you do become sick or have other questions about your condition, please reach out to your health care provider. We offer telemedicine visits via phone or video, so you can stay connected with your doctor without leaving your home.
We are closely monitoring the COVID-19 pandemic, and we will keep you updated. To view up-to-date information about appointments and procedures at Penn Medicine, visit pennmedicine.org/coronavirus.