If you have a friend or family member who was recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, you may feel at a loss for the best ways to help.

These five tips were shared by the Michael J. Fox Foundation Facebook community.

Volunteer to run errands, cook a meal or perform other small favours for your friend or his or her care partner. Many people find asking for help uncomfortable but are relieved to have the help.

Take your friend out. If she loved going to the movies before her diagnosis, catch the latest blockbuster, even if you have to make some adjustments to accommodate the disease’s challenges.

Have a conversation about something other than Parkinson’s disease, and stay patient if disease symptoms make communication difficult.

Enjoy time with the person managing Parkinson’s disease care, as well. Sometimes they need to relax and vent about frustrations, too.

Learn what you can about Parkinson’s disease. Even if Parkinson’s disease isn’t a constant topic of conversation, your friend will appreciate your effort and that you’re aware of common misconceptions surrounding Parkinson’s disease.

Source: The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research