Episode 38: A New Path for Parkinson’s: Prevention, Treatment, and Hope

Parkinson’s disease affects more than 10 million people worldwide, and the numbers are rising. But new research suggests the disease is not only treatable, it may be largely preventable. In this episode, Tiffany Robinson talks with Dr. Michael Okun, one of the world’s leading authorities on Parkinson’s, about environmental risk factors, practical prevention steps, and the vital role caregivers play in maintaining dignity and quality of life.

Whether you’re living with Parkinson’s, supporting someone who is, or working in care, this conversation will leave you with actionable tools and a renewed sense of hope.

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What you’ll learn in this episode

• Why Parkinson’s cases are on the rise, and the environmental factors fueling it
• How to use the Parkinson’s 25 checklist to reduce risk and slow progression
• The surprising link between Parkinson’s and bone health, and what to do about it
• How caregivers can support emotional well-being alongside physical care

Additional resources:

• The Parkinson’s Foundation
• The Parkinson’s Plan: A New Path to Prevention and Treatment
• ComForCare’s Parkinson’s Pathway Program
• Early Signs of Parkinson’s Disease | ComForCare 

Featured Guest

Dr. Michael Okun is the Adelaide Lackner Distinguished Professor of Neurology at the University of Florida, Director of the Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, and National Medical Advisor to the Parkinson’s Foundation. A globally recognized expert in Parkinson’s disease, Dr. Okun has authored multiple books and more than 500 peer-reviewed publications. His latest work, The Parkinson’s Plan: A New Path to Prevention and Treatment, offers a practical, hopeful roadmap for patients, caregivers, and clinicians alike.

Episode Transcript 

Click here for full transcript

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About the Host

Tiffany Robinson is a passionate advocate for caregiver education. As the host of ComForConnections, she brings warmth, insight, and a deep understanding of the caregiving experience to every episode.