I am in this journey because 20 years ago I fell in love with an amazing man. That loving relationship included a spontaneous and fulfilling physical component. If I let that go, I am cheating myself, and my partner, out of some the wonders that our togetherness has to offer.

When thinking about the physical relationship we share, it is important that we take the time to explore options that age and PD provide. There are changes but they are not all with him nor are they all PD related. It is important to remember that I am getting older and that my body and needs are changing too. It may be that we need to slow things down and take our time or that we need a little assistance to get things going at all. Maybe spontaneous intercourse isn’t possible, can we still find other ways to fulfill our needs and find mutual satisfaction? Sometimes a naked cuddle can bring as much pleasure as a wild night together used to bring. We work to find ways to connect and let our love hold us together.

As the disease progresses and we both age, the challenges will get greater. I spoke with a woman recently who talked about how they have adapted their cuddles to be more comfortable for her husband. She spoons from behind and it gives them the opportunity to be close without pain. When my parents reached the point that Dad was in a wheelchair, they used to put his chair next to the couch so they could hold hands while watching television. Sometimes just touching each other is enough to maintain an intimate connection.

There are many great articles on sexual health with PD and I particularly liked this page on the Michael J. Fox website entitled Sexual and Reproductive Health.