Communication

When you have a doctor’s appointment make a list in advance of things that you would like to discuss so that you do not forget anything. To help create this list and for suggestions of general questions see the Guide to Living with Parkinson's Disease: Communication
If you have a lot to discuss with your doctor and need longer than a usual appointment make this clear when you book so that he/she can allow additional time
Take a 'wearing off' diary with you when you visit your doctor. If you need help creating one see the Guide to Living with Parkinson's Disease: wearing off diary
Whilst at the appointment, write down any suggestions or requests the doctor may make so that you have a record of these later
If your tremor makes dialing hard, a telephone with enlarged buttons may help
Install an amplifier on your telephone handset to make it easier to hear
A hands-free speaker telephone is useful if you have tremor
Set speed-dial/memory buttons for frequently used numbers, including emergency numbers, with a clear index taped to telephone
Writing may be easier with thick, padded, felt or specially-shaped pens. Printing in capitals and lifting the pen between each letter may make writing more legible
Try wrapping elastic bands around the pen shaft to give you better grip
Learn to type if writing is particularly difficult, and if typing is also a problem, speech activated software may enable you to still use a computer without the need of a keyboard
‘Sticky’ computer keys (to avoid slipping fingers) and toggle computer keys (which provide sound cues) can help overcome problems if you have tremor
Remember that it is easier to write or type if your body is in a good position, i.e. sitting on a supportive chair and using an ergonomic desk
To help with reading, make use of a magnifying glass, talking books or newspapers and large print copy.

I have many friends who live some distance away so I rely on the telephone. However, I find that the combined effect of my low voice and tremor are reducing my pleasure in these calls. Are there special phones which would help?

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