Does the adjustment to retirement worsen Parkinson’s symptoms?

For many, retirement is like a golden ticket promising a life with fewer problems: less worry, less work, less financial strain. You just have to make it to age 66, or whatever age you’re ready to make the shift.

It’s supposed to bring relaxation, time off, and the eternal vacation that allows you to finally do the things you’ve been wanting to do your whole life. In some cases, that all comes true; there are tales about retired folks putting their lives into a recreational vehicle before traipsing around the country. Others finally take a trip to Europe or simply spend more time playing pickleball.

But often, the shift into retirement is uncomfortable and leaves the retiree feeling listless and without purpose. And I always wonder if that shift will inevitably worsen health outcomes — especially in people with Parkinson’s disease.

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March 5, 2025 Columns by Chukwuemeka Uchebuakor

My father’s Parkinson’s symptoms worsened after his retirement

Adjusting to retirement

Retirement is a fork in the road that seems awfully distant for someone 33, like me. But I’ve had the chance to watch my aunts, uncles, friends, and parents navigate this stage of life, leaving me with a lot of questions.

Dad chose to hang up his working hat years ago, after his Parkinson’s diagnosis shifted life as he knew it. Formerly a real estate agent, he spent his working time brokering deals and matchmaking in the housing market.

But when his tremors started to show, he found himself wanting to interact with strangers less and less. And not only that, but he also found that stress seemed to exacerbate his symptoms, making Parkinson’s even more evident when he was out on the job.

To me, the shift from real estate agent to stay-at-home dad happened quickly. A decision was made, and then Dad’s life was suddenly different. I worried that losing a day-to-day sense of purpose would negatively affect his relationship with the disease. If he didn’t have to show up to work every day, would he fight extra hard to maintain his independence?

The answer seemed like both “yes” and “no.” Dad quickly softened into a life of retirement, leaning into his routines like they were his lifeblood. He got serious about exercise. Mom got extra serious about diet. And then Dad was given a different purpose: a wedding he needed to attend, and his first grandchild.

Dad’s been known to say that he’s ready for death whenever it comes. But I’m convinced that having experiences to look forward to makes it easier to be around. And while work or a career is an important purpose for many people, giving that up doesn’t mean you automatically forfeit your desire to fight.

Note: Parkinson’s News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Parkinson’s News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Parkinson’s disease.