How Digital Technology Is Connecting People With Parkinson’s Disease to the Community They Deserve

During the pandemic and beyond, many of us discovered just how essential technology could be—not only for accessing services, but for staying connected with the people we love. For people with Parkinson’s Disease (PD), the digital shift has brought both opportunities and challenges. At True Self Speech Therapy, we’ve seen firsthand how technology can help bridge gaps in care and connection.

A Lifeline for Social Connection

For many people living with Parkinson’s, platforms like Zoom have become more than just a tool—they’ve become a lifeline. A recent study conducted by researchers at Columbia University (cited at the bottom of this post), highlighted how regular online gatherings helped participants stay in touch with family and friends, offering an emotional boost and reducing feelings of isolation. This aligns with previous research showing that digital socializing can positively impact well-being among older adults.

At our practice, we offer a free weekly Speak Out group. Joining a virtual group maintains the skills our clients have worked so hard to achieve, but also has a powerful impact on mood and motivation.

Telehealth: Convenient, But Not Without Limitations

Telehealth has also emerged as a major benefit, particularly for clients who face challenges getting to in-person appointments. Whether it's speech therapy, mental health care, or check-ins with a movement disorder specialist, many people with PD have reported equal—or even greater—satisfaction with virtual visits compared to in-person care. In fact, more than 40% of participants in the Columbia study indicated that telehealth met or exceeded their expectations across a variety of health services.

That said, telehealth isn’t perfect for everyone. Some participants noted concerns about the ability to build trust and connection through a screen. This was especially true for more complex specialties, like neurology. However, most felt confident using telehealth for services like medication management and therapy sessions.

Addressing the Digital Divide

One of the most important insights from the Columbia University study was the issue of access. Not everyone has a reliable internet connection, a computer, or a smartphone. And even when the tools are available, digital literacy can be a barrier—especially for older adults.

This digital divide often reflects larger social and economic inequities. Lower income levels remain a key factor limiting internet use, and that can mean missing out on essential services and support.

Moving Forward With Equity and Empathy

So, what does this mean for our work at True Self Speech Therapy?

It means we meet people where they are. We offer both in-person and telehealth options. We provide tech support and step-by-step guidance to help clients get comfortable online. We advocate for digital access as a matter of healthcare equity—not a luxury.

And most importantly, we continue to listen. If telehealth doesn’t feel right for someone, we honor that. If it opens up new possibilities, we embrace that too.

Because ultimately, it’s not just about the technology—it’s about connection, care, and ensuring every person with Parkinson’s has a voice that’s heard, whether it's across the room or across a screen.

Reference: Moya-Gale et al. Stronger Together: A Qualitative Exploration of Social Connectedness in Parkinson's Disease in the Digital Era. American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology, Volume 34, Number 1, Pages 281-296.