Circadian Rhythm Disorders and Parkinson’s Disease

Uncovering more about how Parkinson’s may affect circadian rhythm Every person has an internal clock known as the circadian rhythm which regulates many essential biological functions throughout the course of the 24-hour day. There is increasing evidence that Parkinson’s disease (PD) can cause disturbances that alter a person’s circadian rhythm and could influence symptoms, treatment […]

Parkinson’s Research at Emory University’s APDA Center for Advanced Research

Each one of APDA’s nine Centers for Advanced Research conducts an exceptional array of Parkinson’s disease (PD) research activities, and we will highlight each one through the A Closer Look blog. In past blogs, we have introduced you to our Centers for Advanced Research at Yale and at Washington University. Today we will spotlight our research center […]

Parkinson’s Before Diagnosis: Early Warning Signs

Smart Patients Blog Series 1 of 5: Dr. Gilbert Discusses Early Symptoms of Parkinson’s Some early symptoms of Parkinson’s disease (PD) can begin many years before the classic motor symptoms (slowness, stiffness, tremor) ever appear. Symptoms such as sleep disturbances, loss of smell, constipation, and mood changes can emerge years before a formal PD diagnosis. […]

The Impacts of APDA Investments in PD Research

A Closer Look at APDA’s Unique Research Funding Presented at the World Parkinson Congress in 2026 The World Parkinson Congress (WPC) is an international conference that takes place every three years and brings together researchers, clinicians, people with Parkinson’s disease (PD), care partners, and PD advocates to share information on the science of PD as […]

A Turning Point for Parkinson’s: Why the June 29 Advisory Council Meeting Matters

A Turning Point for Parkinson’s: Why the June 29 Advisory Council Meeting Matters On June 29, 2026, the newly established Advisory Council on Parkinson’s Research, Care, and Services will hold its inaugural meeting, a major step in implementing the National Plan to End Parkinson’s Act. As the first formal gathering of the federal body charged […]

Parkinson’s Perspectives: Staying Active with Parkinson’s

We spoke with three inspiring people who are committed to staying active despite the challenges PD presents. Below, each interviewee shares the activities they love most and how they continue to do them – through perseverance, emotional support, or necessary adjustments – even on the hard days. […]

Cooking for people with swallowing difficulties

How food prep and cooking techniques can make eating safer Swallowing difficulties, also known as dysphagia, can unfortunately develop as Parkinson’s disease (PD) advances. These challenges can make eating stressful, reduce enjoyment of meals, and increase the risk of choking, dehydration, and aspiration pneumonia. Fortunately, taking proactive steps with food preparation and cooking techniques can […]

The Future of Parkinson’s Care: Inside Washington University’s APDA Center for Advanced Research

Parkinson’s research happening at Washington University’s APDA Center for Advanced Research The American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) is proud to support nine Centers for Advanced Research which, along with a variety of funded grants and fellowships, are the backbone of our research program. At the Centers, some of the most compelling Parkinson’s disease (PD) research is underway […]