April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month
Parkinson’s disease, now the second most common neurodegenerative condition after Alzheimer’s, has become a true specialty for our team.
Since opening in 1997, English Rose has expanded beyond dementia care to provide expert support for people facing any complex medical condition—including advanced, highly personalized Parkinson’s care.
At English Rose, we understand that while Parkinson’s sometimes includes cognitive challenges, it is primarily a physical disease—especially in the earlier stages. Our approach is always individualized, respecting each person’s abilities, preferences, and pace.
“Caring for someone with Parkinson’s requires, above all else, patience.”— Zach Parlier, English Rose Administrator
In typical care environments, residents with moderate or advanced Parkinson’s disease are too often misunderstood as being stubborn or cognitively impaired when, in reality, they simply need more time. Unfortunately, a rushed or “cookie-cutter” approach frequently leads to frustration on both sides.
At English Rose, every caregiver completes specialized Parkinson’s training and understands the difference that patience and time can make. We know that people with Parkinson’s need extra time—to move, to respond, and to process emotions. Taking away independence or rushing decisions is never the answer.
Many long-term care facilities in Minnesota operate with caregiver-to-resident ratios as high as 1:18. In these settings, staff are exhausted, shortcuts are common, and resident independence is sacrificed for efficiency.
Our unique caregiver-to-resident ratio is just 1:3, one of the best in Minnesota. This allows us to slow down, offer each resident choices, and patiently accommodate their individual needs. Our ten Parkinson’s Foundation–certified site champions provide hands-on mentoring to our caregiving team, ensuring best practices are maintained every day.
Our mission is not to do things for our residents living with Parkinson’s but to enable them to live as independently as possible—taking as much time as they need. At English Rose, our residents set the pace, and our caregivers support them every step of the way.
Parkinson’s disease brings unique challenges. At English Rose, it never means giving up on living a full, meaningful life—and that’s a point of pride for every member of our team.