Since 2020, the Parkinson’s Foundation and VA have partnered to improve the health, well-being, and quality of life for veterans with Parkinson’s Diseases and their loved ones. VA’s concern for veterans began much earlier, however. In 2001, Parkinson’s Disease Research Education and Clinical Centers (PADRECCs) were established to deliver state-of-the-art clinical care, pioneering research, and educational programs to an expansive geographic region staffed by internationally recognized movement disorder specialists. PADRECCs are housed as Centers of Excellence in Philadelphia, Richmond (Virginia), Houston, West Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Portland/Seattle. 

Approximately a million Americans and 10 million people worldwide live with Parkinson’s Disease. More than 110,000 veterans with the disorder receive care through VA, some of whom have access to specialized medical care and financial assistance. Parkinson’s is a progressive, neurological disorder for which there is no cure, but treatment and lifestyle changes can help veterans live well with the disease. Parkinson’s is also a presumptive condition for veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange and certain other toxins during military service.

The Parkinson’s Foundation offers a host of resources for veterans and their loved ones that include a Frequently Asked Questions Guide, a Parkinson’s Disease Webinar Series, and a Helpline that is staffed by social workers, nurses, and health educators specially trained to support veterans with Parkinson’s Disease. Call 1-800-FPD-INFO or email Helpline@Parkinsons.org for specific assistance. For more general information, explore the veteran-specific webpages of the Parkinson’s Foundation here and the VA help available through the PADRECCs here.