Although the first line of intervention in Parkinson’s disease is pharmacological, recent evidence has shown that multidisciplinary therapy using non-drug approaches can improve the symptoms of the disease or even slow its progression. These include regular aerobic physical activity, performed three times a week at 70-80% of maximum cardiac output. Although there are no studies on disease progression, a great deal of evidence has accumulated showing that a healthy, Mediterranean-type diet with little consumption of processed/refined animal derivatives and rich in antioxidants reduces the risk of the disease: a healthy, balanced diet should therefore also be adopted in patients with the disease. Finally, patients should adopt a ‘participative’ approach to disease management by encouraging mental exercise and resilience, with information and support from professionals.

Download