Over time you may want to consider stopping work or retiring early. It is important to be aware of your limitations and respect your body’s ability to comfortably continue working. But it is also important to recognise that retirement is a big step and change in life and one that should not be rushed into without due consideration and discussion with your family and/or friends. If you do decide to retire then ask your employer about advice on planning for your retirement or contact other organisations who can help with retirement planning – see Who can help?.
Many people go on to do voluntary work or find that they happily adapt to life without paid employment, taking up new hobbies and keeping active with various creative pursuits. Of course, finding more time for family and friends is often very welcome!
Giving up paid work doesn’t mean surrendering to Parkinson’s, far from it. It can open new doors and you may find new, enjoyable activities to pursue. Finding purposeful activities that use your skills and engage you mentally can be equally rewarding and far less draining.
