Parkinson’s Disease Course

Parkinson’s Disease – Online Course

Course overview
This Level 1 online course introduces Parkinson’s disease, its common symptoms and its effects on everyday life. It explores the support needs of people living with the condition, including movement difficulties, non-motor symptoms, eating and drinking challenges, and changes that may occur as the disease progresses. Learners will also develop an understanding of person-centred care, promoting independence and recognising when further clinical advice may be needed. The course takes 1 hour to complete and is CPD accredited.

Please note: This course provides introductory, awareness-level knowledge of Parkinson’s disease and related support needs. It does not replace practical, regulated or role-specific training that an employer may require.

What the course covers
• What Parkinson’s disease is and what causes it
• Parkinsonism and the role of dopamine
• Parkinson’s disease in the UK
• Diagnosis and the three classic symptoms
• Disease progression and care planning
• Managing slow movements, tremors and muscle rigidity
• Freezing and other movement difficulties
• Non-motor symptoms
• Eating, drinking and swallowing difficulties
• Sleep disturbances
• Bladder and bowel problems
• Falls and pain management
• Care action plans and individual support needs

Who is it for?
This introductory course is suitable for people who need awareness or refresher training as part of their role. It may be useful for:
• Nurses and nursing assistants
• Physiotherapists and occupational therapists
• Neurologists and general practitioners
• Speech and language therapists
• Family caregivers, personal assistants and support workers
• Care staff in residential and assisted living settings
• Community health workers
• Social workers and care coordinators
• Staff completing induction or seeking to improve their knowledge

Practical benefits
• Develop a clearer understanding of Parkinson’s disease and its effects on daily living
• Recognise common symptoms and differences in how the condition presents
• Understand potential complications and changing support needs
• Adapt communication and assistance to individual preferences
• Support independence, dignity and informed choice
• Recognise signs of deterioration or increased risk
• Understand when further clinical advice or urgent assistance may be needed
• Strengthen knowledge for induction, refresher training and ongoing professional development

What learners will be able to do
• Describe Parkinson’s disease and its potential impact on everyday life
• Identify common signs, symptoms and variations in presentation
• Understand relevant risk factors and possible complications
• Explain how person-centred support can encourage self-management where appropriate
• Adapt communication and support to individual needs
• Recognise signs of deterioration or increased risk
• Identify when further clinical advice or urgent help is required
• Promote independence, dignity and informed choice in care and support

Assessment and certificate
Learners complete an online quiz at the end of the course. Unlimited retakes are available. On successful completion, learners receive a free CPD-accredited digital certificate, which can be downloaded or printed at home. A hard copy can also be requested.

The course is delivered online, with access allocated upon completion of purchase.