As with any newly diagnosed condition or ongoing disability, the difficulty it presents for just everyday living can be challenging enough, let alone figuring out how to cope with it in the workplace.

Often times, the disability is something you can keep to yourself—not sharing with those in the workplace. However, there are several conditions, such as PD, where privacy may not be an option. And because each PD patient has their own set of symptoms and disease progression, making that decision to communicate with those you work with regarding your condition, will more than likely have its own timeline.

So what and how much do you share with your boss and co-workers? According to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, being open and candid about your PD diagnosis is highly recommended – “candid and honest dialogue with employers and coworkers can help dispel fears and anxiety you may have about your symptoms at work. Many people in the Parkinson’s community found that they received more support than they originally thought they would have.”

Once you or your loved one has made the difficult decision to openly share your PD diagnosis with your boss and co-workers, there are some steps you can take to assist you in remaining productive in your job.

  1. Make a plan to accommodate your workload– Because PD can easily zap your energy, work to break down the tasks into a more manageable level. This will help you to keep your energy up and recover as necessary.
  2. Make the necessary physical adjustments—this can include workstation accommodations, wireless headset, writing utensils, or magnifying aids for those experiencing decrease in vision
  3. Don’t let the anxiety get you down—have an open dialogue with your co-workers. This is your chance to educate them, dispelling any myths and misconceptions they may have about PD, allowing you to just ‘be yourself.’

As the disease continues to progress, remember to keep an open line of communication with your superiors AND co-workers, as new accommodations may need to be implemented for ongoing employment.

Source: Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research