What Is Neuropalliative Care?

Neuropalliative care provides an added layer of support for patients and families navigating complex neurologic conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders. It focuses on improving quality of life by helping patients manage symptoms, make informed decisions, and plan for the future.

Unlike hospice care, which is focused on comfort during the final months of life, neuropalliative care is available at any stage of disease and works alongside your regular treatments. It can begin early and continue throughout your journey.

Our Approach

We believe the best care takes a team. Our neuropalliative care team has experts in:

• Movement disorders neurology
• Palliative care medicine
• Social work
• Spiritual care

Together, we look at the full picture of your health and well-being. We work closely with your primary neurologist and other care team members to make sure your care is coordinated and personalized.

Our focus includes:

• Managing symptoms such as pain, stiffness, fatigue and medication side effects
• Supporting emotional and spiritual health
• Helping families and caregivers navigate challenges
• Planning for future care needs

What to Expect

Appointments are available in person or virtually, depending on your needs. A typical visit includes:

• A medical consultation with a nurse practitioner and palliative care physician
• A supportive conversation with a chaplain and social worker
• A care plan tailored to your goals, values and current challenges

Visits usually last 60 to 90 minutes. Most patients are seen for an initial consultation and a follow-up visit several months later. Additional visits may be scheduled if needed.

Support for Families and Caregivers

We understand that illness affects the whole family. Our team provides support for caregivers, including:

• Referrals to therapy and support groups
• Help with respite care and community services
• Guidance for managing stress and burnout

Caregivers are encouraged to participate in visits and share their concerns. We’re here to support you, too.

Spiritual and Emotional Support

Living with a chronic disease can bring up difficult emotions and questions. Our chaplain and social worker are available to help you and your family explore what matters most, cope with changes, and find meaning in your experience, regardless of your faith or background.

We also offer counseling and mental health support to help with anxiety, depression, grief and other challenges.

Planning for the Future

We help patients and families prepare for future care decisions through:

• Healthcare Power of Attorney forms
• Living wills and Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders
• Family conversations about goals of care

These discussions are approached with sensitivity and respect. Patients are encouraged to bring completed forms to their appointment so they can be added to their medical record.