There’s an app for that…
In this digital age, it can be overwhelming with the amount of apps available. We go through what to think about and highlight PD apps below.
Parkinson’s Apps
More people are turning to digital tools to help manage long‑term health goals and chronic conditions. For people living with Parkinson’s, smartphones, smartwatches and apps can play a helpful role in tracking symptoms, taking your medications on time, tracking any side effects, tracking your exercise and sharing information with care partners and the care team.
These tools work best when they are used alongside your usual care. It is important to talk with your care team about what might suit your needs, help you achieve your goals and stick to your daily routines. Different apps do different things, and some may be more helpful depending on your symptoms, lifestyle or the devices you already use. An assessment by an occupational therapist can also help you choose tools that match your goals and show you how to use them confidently.
Digital tools can be useful, but they do not replace the guidance of your GP or rehabilitation specialists such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists and speech pathologists. They are meant to support your care, not take the place of it.
Many apps collect information about your health, including symptoms, medications and activity levels. Before downloading anything, take time to read how your data will be stored, shared and protected. Costs can also add up. Some apps are free to download but may charge subscription fees, in-app purchases or require extra devices. A small number of apps have received regulatory clearance and may need a doctor’s prescription.
There are also apps designed specifically for care partners. These can help organise routines, coordinate care and support wellbeing.
Some apps only work on certain devices, such as an iOS or Android, or a particular smartwatch. We note these requirements in the descriptions.
Types of Tools You May Find
- Symptom Tracking
Apps that help you record daily symptoms, “on” and “off” times and possible triggers such as stress, sleep, diet or activity. These tools can help you notice patterns and changes over time and support more informed conversations with your care team. - Medication Reminders & Management
Apps that help you keep track of medication timing and doses. They may reduce missed doses and make it easier to share updates with your doctor. - Memory & Thinking Support
Apps with activities that focus on memory, attention and problem‑solving. These tools may help support cognitive health. - Speech & Voice Practice
Apps that guide you through voice exercises and provide feedback to help strengthen and maintain clear speech. - Exercise & Physical Therapy
Apps with exercise routines, movement tutorials and tools that track walking, balance, tremor or mobility. These can support regular physical activity and help you monitor progress. - Care Partner Tools
Apps that help care partners stay organised with shared calendars, symptom logs, safety alerts and care coordination features. These tools can support communication and help families, or “your village”, to manage daily tasks or when an unexpected situation arises.
A Note from Parkinson’s Australia
The digital tools and apps listed on this page are not endorsed or recommended by Parkinson’s Australia. We cannot determine which products are right for you. Our goal is to provide clear information so you can make informed choices as you manage Parkinson’s.
Please keep in mind that app features, availability and costs may change over time.
Links to apps
YOPX App
The Young Onset Parkinson’s Exchange app has been developed as a go-to resource centre for all Australians living with or supporting someone with a diagnosis. Find information and news updates, get step-by-step help with NDIS and generate letters for your workplace to assist with negotiating fair hours and conditions.
Read real life stories from other people making life work for them and find support specific your age group and care status.
How do I access supports?
It’s advisable to explore all available pathways to find the support that best suits your individual needs. Look to:
- getting a GP referral to someone with Parkinson‘s experience
- your state-based Parkinson’s organisation for advice
- Ask Izzy https://askizzy.org.au/ to search for local services to access
- private health to see what is covered in relation to consultations and expenses
- DVA, NDIS or My Aged Care plan supports.
Infosheet under review
Description of reviewer with links to their org if applicable
References
Cox, E., Wade, R., Hodgson, R., Fulbright, H., Phung, T. H., Meader, N., et al. (2024). Devices for remote continuous monitoring of people with Parkinson’s disease: A systematic review and cost‑effectiveness analysis. Health Technology Assessment, 28(30).
Boege, S., Milne‑Ives, M., Ananthakrishnan, A., Carroll, C., & Meinert, E. (2024). Self‑management systems for patients and clinicians in Parkinson’s disease care: A scoping review. Journal of Parkinson’s Disease, 14(7), 1387–1404.
Farzanehfar, P., Woodrow, H., Braybrook, M., McGregor, S., Evans, A., Nicklason, F., & Horne, M. (2018). Objective measurement in routine care of people with Parkinson’s disease improves outcomes. npj Parkinson’s Disease, 4(1), 1–7.
Khodakarami, H., Farzanehfar, P., & Horne, M. (2021). The utility of objective measurement in the management of Parkinson’s disease. npj Parkinson’s Disease, 7(1), 1–9.
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