Parkinson’s UK publishes new thinking and memory information in collaboration with UCL

Created in collaboration with the Parkinson’s community and University College London (UCL), we’ve published new information on thinking and memory changes for people with Parkinson’s. 

The information was developed through the Patterns of Perception in Parkinson’s Disease project at UCL, led by Dr Rimona Weil, Neurologist at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, UCLH and Neuroscientist at UCL.

Through a series of creative workshops at Central Saint Martins, people living with Parkinson’s and their loved ones explored their fears and concerns about Parkinson’s dementia. 

People living with Parkinson’s are more likely to develop thinking and memory changes, such as Parkinson’s dementia, than the general population. But the taboo around dementia can make it difficult to talk about. And people often aren’t aware of the support and guidance that’s available. 

Healthcare professionals may also avoid discussions about Parkinson’s dementia with their patients. Some believe there isn’t much they can do to help and worry about upsetting them.

The learnings from the workshops helped to create 2 information booklets. These were then developed further in focus group sessions, with input from people living with Parkinson’s, healthcare professionals, and Parkinson’s UK.

Both booklets were launched at an event with project collaborators and participants in July 2023 at Central Saint Martins, London.

Sion Baldwin-Jones, Health Content Manager at Parkinson’s UK, says:

"We know that changes in thinking and memory is a hugely important topic for the Parkinson’s community. But conversations around these symptoms can be really challenging, for people diagnosed with the condition, their family or friends and even health professionals.

"This information will not only help people who have day to day challenges with their thinking and memory understand the condition better, but also help them manage these symptoms through practical tips and advice."