For many Parkinson's disease patients work is a vital link to their well-being. Work can be a flavorful part of life because of the accomplishments that occur there, the meaningful relationships that the workplace fosters, and the ability to use talents, skills and abilities. For many, the more crucial link is the link to essential health insurance benefits, as well as the income you need to pay for deductibles, copays, and other expenses related to your daily battle with the disease. Of course there are also the other bills and expenses that everyone juggles. You may also have others who depend on your income for their needs. So, it is important to work, and work well.
Of course your relationship with your neurologist is key in maintaining your ability. Talk to them and tell them what you are having trouble with at work. They may be able to help you with your short-term challenges. They may also be able to help extend your horizon of workable years. In a
blog post from last week supplemented by a noted neurologist, she stated, ""We have some excellent medications, that when properly optimized can provide tremendous benefit. There is no need to close up shop and hide. Many patients can maintain a lot of function." This certainly applies to your work activities.
If you are working in the United States, your employer is subject to the Americans with Disabilities Act. You have rights to "reasonable accommodations" under this law. Of course, the interpretation of "reasonable accommodations" is continuously refined by the ongoing decisions of juries and judges.
The Job Accommodation Network is a project funded by the US Department of Labor. They have a page dedicated to assisting Parkinson's patients with resources as they seek reasonable accommodations from their employers. To visit its website
click here.
Approaching an employer about reasonable accommodations can be an uncomfortable experience, which likely requires some preparation. Please email me and tell me about your experiences working with PD. What has helped you to be able to stay on the job? I would like to pass on your good information to the readers. My email address is
mnilsen@myparkinsonsinfo.com.
This posting was prompted by an email from a reader. Thank you for the insight into your life.
P.S. - There is also a time when work is no longer possible, in an upcoming post we will look into crossing the threshold of disability. We will explore the definition of "disabled," how to apply for disability and some resources for the disabled.
