With Calli Hutchison, DPT & Lea Pafford, OT

Care partners are such a vital part of the Parkinson’s community. We see every day how their support plays a huge role in helping our clients live their best lives. That’s why we believe creating a space for them to connect, share, and learn is so important.

The 8-week template provides everything you need to get started—from discussion topics and group prompts to resources and optional activities:

Week 1: Introduction to Using the Template
Week 2: Mindfulness
Week 3: Activities of Daily Living
Week 4: Medication Management
Week 5: Stress Cycle and Self Care
Week 6: Fear of Future
Week 7: Loss of Identity, Social Isolation, and Role Checklist
Week 8: Closing and Moving Forward

This module also includes many helpful handouts with games, activities, and resources to help spark conversation and connection. In particular, the Modified Caregiver Strain Index was used before and after the 8-week template to help us better understand the impact of the group. That tool is included in the included handouts — although it's totally optional based on your group’s needs.

Whether you’re a clinician, community member, or care partner yourself, this template is a great jumping-off point to create meaningful support for others. And if you’re just looking for ideas to better support the care partners in your life or practice, you’ll find some valuable tools here, too.