App-athy

How technology can help with the very real symptom of apathy in Parkinson's

Parkinson’s and the Myth of Motivation: What Looks Like Laziness Is Often Something Else

Let’s talk about something that people with Parkinson’s rarely get credit for: how hard it is just to start.

From the outside, it might look like procrastination. Or avoidance. Or a lack of motivation. But what’s really going on? It’s a whole lot more complicated—and honestly, way more frustrating.

It’s Not Laziness. It’s Brain Chemistry.

One of the sneakiest symptoms of Parkinson’s is apathy—that weird, heavy mental fog where even thinking about starting something feels impossible. It’s not because we don’t care. Quite the opposite. We care deeply. About our families, our goals, our responsibilities. But Parkinson’s messes with our dopamine system—the same one that helps you feel drive, reward, and momentum.

When dopamine is low, everything just feels… distant. Like you’re underwater, trying to reach for something but it keeps slipping away. Even the tiniest task—sending that one email, tying your shoes—can feel like a mountain. You want to do it. You mean to do it. And then… you just don’t.

The Tug-of-War No One Sees

Here’s where it gets really tough: you know exactly what needs to happen, but there’s this invisible wall between you and doing it. And the longer it lasts, the more guilt and self-doubt sneak in.

• You’ve written the to-do list.

• You’ve rehearsed the plan.

• You want to get moving.

But you’re stuck. And everyone else? They don’t see the wall—they just see you not doing the thing. And suddenly, you’re not just battling Parkinson’s; you’re battling expectations, too.

The Inner Voice? It’s Not Always Kind.

If you’ve ever thought:

• “Why can’t I just get on with it?”

• “People must think I’m lazy.”

• “I’m letting everyone down.”

You’re not alone. And you’re definitely not the only one thinking those things. But here’s the deal: Parkinson’s doesn’t just mess with how we move. It messes with how we initiate anything—how we act, plan, respond. It’s not about willpower. It’s about wiring.

So What Actually Helps?

There’s no magic fix. But a few things can tip the odds in your favor:

• Structure beats motivation. Don’t wait to feel ready. Routines can carry you when your brain can’t.

• Break it all down. And then break it down again. Not “clean the kitchen,” but “move one plate.”

• Low-pressure check-ins. A supportive text, a five-minute chat—these can nudge you forward without the guilt.

• Celebrate the small stuff. Starting is huge. Even if you stop right after, starting is still a win.

When Tech Lends a Hand

Okay, so let’s be honest—tech isn’t going to cure apathy. But it can help nudge us in the right direction.

• Gentle reminders: Smartwatches and phone alerts that say “hey, time to stretch” , “get moving” or “drink water” can be the external push we sometimes need.

• Online communities: Whether it’s Parkinson’s-specific or just a general wellness group, being part of something reminds you that you’re not doing this alone.

• Habit apps: Stuff like Todoist, Habitica, or even simple reminders with checkboxes turn tiny wins into visible progress.

• Voice assistants: On tough days, saying “Hey Google, set a timer” or “Remind me to take meds” is way easier than opening an app and thinking.

• Mood trackers: Apps like Bearable or Daylio let you notice patterns. Maybe you’re more clear-headed mid-morning. Maybe Tuesdays always suck. Patterns give you power.

• Gamification: Digital Therapeutics like Strolll put the fun into treatment/movement by adding a competitive element to exercise. See video below

Time to Rethink the Story

Let’s stop pretending motivation is a choice. Let’s stop equating action with character. If Parkinson’s is part of your life and you’re struggling to get going? That’s not weakness. That’s the condition.

Let’s trade “Why haven’t you done it?” for “How can we make it easier to start?”

Because some days, just showing up is the most powerful thing you’ll do.