Hope in Action: How Lifestyle CoachingSupports Parkinson’s Patients

Parkinson’s disease is often described as a thief of movement — slowly stealing

independence, balance, and even confidence. While medicine plays a critical role in

managing symptoms, an exciting truth is emerging: lifestyle choices, coaching, and support

can make a measurable difference in how people with Parkinson’s live day-to-day.

In my work as a National Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach and Certified

Dementia Practitioner, I have dedicated my practice to helping individuals and families

navigate the challenges of neurodegenerative disease. In 2024, I led a Pilot I study exploring

how targeted wellness coaching could impact the lives of people living with Parkinson’s

disease and their caregivers. The results were very encouraging.

Inside the Pilot I Study

The goal of the study was straightforward: to see whether structured coaching could

improve quality of life for Parkinson’s patients and reduce stress for their caregivers.

Participants received guidance in areas such as Parkinson’s-specific exercise, nutrition,

sleep, stress management, prayer and balancing medications from a Naturopathic

Doctor/Pharmacist. Rather than focusing only on “what’s wrong,” our sessions emphasized

practical, positive small steps to regain quality of life.

Over three and six months, we tracked outcomes through self-assessments, symptom

diaries, and caregiver feedback. The participants were not alone; their loved ones were

involved, making this a true team effort.

Results That Matter

While Parkinson’s has yet to be cured, the study showed wellness coaching can improve the

lived experience of those diagnosed:

• Increased energy, stamina, and health — Patients reported more consistency in daily

movement, such as walking or stretching routines.

• Improved sleep quality — Simple sleep hygiene strategies reduced nighttime

restlessness for several participants.

• Better mood and outlook — Coaching sessions that included prayer and gratitude

practices led to fewer days of depression or apathy.

• Caregiver relief — Caregivers noted reduced stress when they, too, were encouraged to

practice self-care alongside their loved ones.

• Greater sense of hope — Patients and caregivers alike expressed that the program gave

them a sense of agency — that they weren’t powerless in the face of the disease.

Beyond the Study: Ongoing Support

Since completing Pilot I, I’ve continued to integrate these findings into my practice with

Parkinson’s patients in Pittsburgh and beyond. Sessions often focus on small but consistent

actions: walking for 10 minutes after meals, swapping processed foods for nutrient-dense

options, practicing balance exercises, and carving out moments of stress relief.

What makes this work unique is its collaborative approach. We co-create strategies that fit

the participant’s reality. A widowed man living alone may need different solutions than a

couple navigating the disease together. Coaching honors those differences while providing

accountability and encouragement.

Caregivers, too, remain a central part of this mission. Parkinson’s is not an individual

diagnosis — it affects the entire family system. Teaching caregivers to protect their own

health not only improves their well-being but also sustains their capacity to provide loving

support.

Looking Ahead: Pilot II and Beyond

Building on Pilot I’s success, we are preparing for Pilot II, which may expand participant

numbers and explore the added role of nutritional supplementation and advanced lifestyle

strategies. With each step, the goal remains the same: to provide hope, tools, and improved

quality of life for individuals and families living with Parkinson’s.

Closing Thought

Parkinson’s disease does not have to define a person. Through coaching, movement, and

mindful living, patients and caregivers can rediscover strength, resilience, and joy. As our

Pilot I study showed, the right support can transform “just getting by” into truly living well

despite Parkinson’s.

Marla Turnbull

National Board-Certified Health & Wellness Coach

Certified Dementia Practitioner Owner

Marla@NaturesDivineHealing.com Phone: 412-302-4638

www.NaturesDivineHealing.com