February 25, 2026

@michaelokun

Spirituality and neurological diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer's. Could faith, meaning and purpose shape how folks cope and heal? Spirituality refers to how individuals search for meaning, purpose and connection, whether through religion, nature, relationships or personal beliefs. Indu Subramanian and colleagues describe in a new paper in Neurology Clinical Practice how spirituality can play a powerful role in neurologic disease care, including Parkinson’s disease, and how health care providers can better address it as part of whole person care. Key points: – Spirituality helps folks w/ neurologic disease cope w/ uncertainty, disability and identity changes by providing meaning, hope and emotional resilience. – Many patients want their health care providers to ask about spirituality, however these discussions frequently do not happen because of lack of training, time and comfort. – Simple screening questions and integrating spiritual practices such as prayer, meditation or community engagement may improve quality of life and strengthen the therapeutic relationship. My take: This paper reminds us that Parkinson’s disease is not just about dopamine or brain circuits. It is about identity, purpose and meaning. When health care providers acknowledge spirituality, they help folks feel seen as whole human beings. In my experience, these conversations frequently deepen trust and improve care. We do not need to have all the answers. Sometimes simply listening and being present is the most powerful intervention. Here are 5 points that resonated w/ me: 1- Spirituality can help folks make sense of many neurological disease (PD, AD and beyond) and can help folks cope w/ uncertainty and loss. 2- Many folks want their health care providers to ask about what gives them strength and meaning. 3- Addressing spirituality can improve quality of life, emotional well being and satisfaction w/ care. 4- Health care providers do not need to be spiritual experts, simple questions and active listening can help. 5- Whole person care including physical, emotional and spiritual health may be essential to living well w/ Parkinson’s. https://www.neurology.org/ #michaelokun #parkinson