Digital technology is opening up a world of practical support, from enhancing communication to providing timely medication reminders. These innovations help maintain essential skills such as cognition, communication, hearing, mobility, self‐care, and vision; in turn, they enable you to look after your health, wellbeing, and social engagement.

Modern digital tools such as mobile apps, wearable devices, electronic health records, and artificial intelligence have been developed to help streamline the day-to-day management of Parkinson’s symptoms. This new technology can bolster your independence and embed safety and confidence in your daily routines. Whether you are managing subtle cognitive changes or the physical aspects of the condition, these advances are tailored to support you in living a more connected and empowered life.

Practical ways that you can integrate technology into your everyday routine

  • Accessible Devices: Make full use of your computer and mobile phone’s built-in accessibility settings. Customising these options can help you navigate digital content more comfortably.
  • Reminders and Alerts: Set up personalised alerts on your devices to remind you to drink water, take your medications, and even signal imminent bedtime.
  • Wearable Safety Features: Use smartwatches equipped with fall-detection capabilities and step-count goals. Such features not only monitor your physical activity but also offer peace of mind.
  • Assistive Communication: Speak with your speech pathologist about assistive technologies like communication aids and amplification devices. These tools can significantly improve interactions if you experience any speech difficulties.
  • Voice Assistants and Smart Homes: Incorporate voice-activated assistants and smart home platforms to help manage routine tasks around the house, making everyday life more convenient.
  • Voice-to-Text Software: For times when texting or typing proves challenging, voice-to-text apps or other AI-driven programmes can offer a reliable alternative.
  • Tracking Essentials: Attach an AirTag (or a similar tracking device) to everyday items such as your keys. This simple tool can reduce the stress of misplacing important possessions.
  • Enhanced Home Safety: Consider installing sensor- or Bluetooth-connected lighting in frequently used areas. This can help illuminate your path when moving around, particularly during low-light hours.

By embracing these digital solutions, you can play an active role in managing your symptoms while staying connected with your community, both socially and in the workplace. Importantly, while these technologies have the potential to improve your quality of life, it is wise to consult with you care team to ensure any new tool or programme aligns with your individual needs.There is so much more to explore. For example, digital health platforms now offer personalised coaching tailored to your specific condition, and virtual reality programmes are emerging as therapeutic tools for improving motor function and mental wellbeing.

In our rapidly evolving digital age, these innovations not only address practical concerns but also support broader goals, such as social inclusion and workforce participation. With expanding online communities, virtual support groups, and other digital health initiatives, there are ever more ways to feel connected and empowered regardless of where you are in your Parkinson’s journey.

References

Chandrabhatla, A. S., Pomeraniec, I. J., & Ksendzovsky, A. (2022). Co‐evolution of machine learning and digital technologies to improve monitoring of Parkinson’s disease motor symptoms. npj Digital Medicine, 5(1), 32. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41746-022-00568-y

Nature. (2025). Innovations and ongoing challenges in digital technologies for Parkinson’s disease. NPJ Parkinson’s Disease. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41531-025-00920-5

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