Build your DBS conversation sheet

Organize what is changing, what you hope DBS might help and what you still need your specialist team to answer.

This is not an eligibility test.

It does not score your answers, recommend surgery or replace a DBS evaluation. Your answers stay in this browser and are not sent to Doing Life Today.

Why shared decision support matters ↗

Step 1 of 7

01What is becoming difficult in your daily life?

Describe activities, times of day or situations that Parkinson's is making harder. Specific examples are most useful.

What is happening?

02What improves when levodopa is working?

Think about your best medication “on” time. Select what clearly improves, then add any detail.

What difference do you notice, and how long does it last?

03What problem are you hoping DBS will solve?

Name the one or two changes that matter most. DBS cannot improve every Parkinson's symptom.

My biggest hope is:

04What would a successful outcome look like?

Describe something observable in real life. Avoid words such as “normal” or “cured.”

DBS would feel worthwhile to me if:

05What are you most afraid of losing or worsening?

Select every concern you want the team to address honestly.

Anything else you want protected or discussed?

06What does your care partner or support person need to understand?

This can include recovery, transportation, programming visits, medication changes or the effect on your household.

Their questions or concerns:

07What must the DBS team answer?

We have started your list with essential questions. Uncheck any you do not want, then add your own.

Which of my symptoms are likely, uncertain or unlikely to improve? How could DBS affect my speech, swallowing, gait, balance, cognition, mood or apathy? Which brain target and device are you recommending, and why? What alternatives should I compare with DBS? What would make your team recommend waiting or not proceeding? Who handles programming, urgent problems and long-term follow-up?

My additional questions:

Build your DBS conversation sheet

DBS Conversation Builder questions

My DBS Evaluation Conversation Sheet