How this service can help
Parkinson’s Australia describes exercise as a core part of care and recommends an individual program that considers symptoms, fitness and personal goals. A physiotherapist can help translate that guidance into exercises and movement strategies that fit the home and routine.
Some people want help with smaller steps, freezing, turning, getting out of a chair or confidence outdoors. Others are looking for a structured way to stay active. The assessment determines which issues are appropriate for physiotherapy and which need input from a neurologist, GP, speech pathologist, occupational therapist or another professional.
Walking and turning
Explore cues and practice strategies for the situations the person finds difficult, with attention to safety and medication timing.
Strength and aerobic activity
Choose a level and format the person can repeat consistently, taking account of fatigue and other health conditions.
Balance and falls planning
Assess relevant movement and discuss equipment, home setup and when broader medical or allied-health review is needed.
Everyday tasks
Practise movements such as standing, bed mobility and getting through doorways in the setting where they occur.
Planning your home visit
Private home visit prices: initial consultation $165, follow-ups from $130, plus $20 travel for each consultation ($185 initial; follow-ups from $150 including travel). See consultation inclusions and funding. We confirm the applicable fee and payment pathway before booking.
Check your suburb on the Sydney home visit service-area hub. Compare Support at Home, Medicare rebates and eligible DVA home visits before arranging care.
What happens from enquiry to plan
- Before the first visitTell us about diagnosis, recent changes, falls, freezing, usual “on” times, walking aids and the other clinicians involved.
- At homeThe physiotherapist observes selected tasks and agrees on practical priorities with the person and, where consented, family or carers.
- Between visitsThe plan is kept clear enough to practise. It can be reviewed as symptoms, confidence, support or goals change.
Important to know
Physiotherapy does not diagnose Parkinson’s or replace review by a GP or neurologist. Sudden or marked changes should be medically assessed rather than assumed to be normal progression.
Trusted Australian information
Parkinson’s Australia: exercise
Common questions
Do you offer LSVT BIG or PD Warrior?
Some team members list training in these approaches. Ask about the person’s needs and current clinician availability; a named program is used only when it is appropriate.
Can you help with freezing of gait?
A physiotherapist may assess the pattern and practise individual cueing or movement strategies. Medication review and other disciplines may also be important.
Should a family member join the visit?
They are welcome with the person’s consent. It can help everyone use the same cues and understand how much assistance is useful.
Can someone with Parkinson’s join a MoveWell class?
Possibly. Call first so the team can discuss mobility, balance, cognition, support and whether a group or one-to-one assessment is the better starting point.
Where can I find current Australian information?
Parkinson’s Australia publishes information about exercise and assembling a multidisciplinary care team.