[Terry F.]

I was working full-time after my third attempt at retirement when I was diagnosed 3 years ago at age 68. I need to be busy, productive and working with people I enjoy. I work retail at a local hardware store and averaged about 3 miles a day walking and 15 flights of stairs at that time. After I returned to work Post-Covid I found working 40+ hours a week was tiring me out, I was also doing Rock Steady Boxing every Tuesday and Strength Training at a small semi-private class on Monday and Wednesday nights.

My job originally required me to work alternating weekends and two nights a week (closing). My bosses have been terrific about working with what ever I needed so I dropped all weekend duties and no longer closed. I slowly reduced my days from 5 to 4 and finally 3 days a week.

I’ve temporarily stopped RSB (other reasons) but continued my strength training, which I highly recommend and would be happy to go into more detail if asked.

Finally about work now: On most days I keep so active I often completely forget that I have PD. It’s on those occasional days where my meds are not helping that I notice my tremors more. Even my staff will comment that they often do not notice my tremors.

I’m open for question.

[Terry F.]

Hi Mary,

I do strength training twice a week which has helped a tremendous amount with my balance (we do a lot of core work) and overall strength. I also do Rock Steady Boxing, on alternate days, which I would recommend to any fellow Parky to do if available in your area.

I still work, reduced my weekly schedule from 48/week to 24 – 30/week, in a retail so I get plenty of walking, lifting and stair work.  This ‘program’ has improved my energy, strength and balance levels. It’s restored my ability to come home and do yard work, house maintenance and my art.  I plan to start riding bikes again.

I’m 71 and three years into my diagnosis.

[Terry F.]

I’m with you and Terri. I’ve had the initial two shots and two boosters. I’m anticipating the next booster will include additional coverage for the Omicron variant.

I fully expect covid vaccinations to become like the yearly flu shots as this pandemic becomes more of an endemic.

I am very fortunate to have two brilliant step-children who have doctorates in microbiology. Both tell me the same thing…this will be with us for a very long time.

[Terry F.]

Hey Ally,

My plan is to keep working at the current pace for the foreseeable future. I work Mon-Wed-Fri which works well for me. I would only cut back more if my health dramatically changes or when my wife retires and we decide to travel more.

My advice for anyone contemplating reducing they’re work days is to make sure you keep those days-off filled with physical or mental activities. It’s too easy to vegetate on those days, not that an occasional day lounging about really hurts, but have projects or hobbies lined up and ready to work on.

If you aren’t already doing a regularly scheduled physical activity I would use those days to take a strength training class. This, other than dialing in my meds, has had the greatest positive impact on my well-being. I won’t try to sell anyone on this but I would be happy to share my experiences if asked.