Frequently Asked Questions
What is Conversation Companion?
Conversation Companion is a pilot of an online tool that looks to help people with Parkinson’s, their care partners and their families talk through a sensitive topic together: getting more help at home as Parkinson’s changes. It turns these important conversations into a practical, shared plan and connects you with resources to take action. As we are in the pilot phase, the tool, which is free to use, will change and improve as we learn. Hearing what works well for you and where we can improve helps us build a better experience for everyone.
How does the collaboration with the Parkinson’s Foundation work?
Jigsaw, an incubator within Google, teamed up with the Parkinson’s Foundation to develop Conversation Companion. Jigsaw combined its technology with the Parkinson’s Foundation’s expertise in living well with Parkinson’s and supporting care partners to create a tool meant to help families plan their next steps together.
Why are you focused on help at home?
As Parkinson’s changes, everyday life at home can change too: a near-fall, freezing, trouble with dressing or bathing, medication timing, communication or mood changes, preparing for a hospital stay, nights without sleep, or a care partner who is stretched thin. Deciding when and how to adjust routines or bring in more support is one of the most common, and most personal, conversations families face. By grounding every conversation in resources from the Parkinson’s Foundation, we hope to help everyone work as a team, keep the person with Parkinson’s at the center of every decision, and find support that makes daily life safer and more sustainable.
How does the tool actually work?
You start by inviting the people you’d like to include to participate in a conversation within the tool. Each person has an opportunity to share their perspective 1-on-1, either through the tool or via a phone call. Then, Conversation Companion highlights where everyone is already on the same page, points out topics worth discussing further, and helps you align on a plan together.
Is it meant to replace talking in person?
No, Conversation Companion is designed to support and simplify your conversations, not replace them. It simply offers a way to get a tough conversation started, taking a bit of the pressure off so everyone can focus on finding solutions together.
Who might consider using Conversation Companion?
It is designed for people with Parkinson’s, care partners and families looking to plan for help at home together. It gives family and friends a way to offer support and ensures the person with Parkinson’s has an active voice in shaping their own plan.
What will the participants see?
Each member of your care group shares their thoughts 1-on-1 with Conversation Companion. Then the tool brings everyone’s input together to identify where alignment already exists and what might need more discussion. A paraphrased summary of each individual’s thoughts will contribute to the overall view, but not in their exact words. These thoughts are shared to help the conversation move forward to create a plan together.
Is this medical advice?
No. This isn’t medical advice. Talk with your neurologist or care team. In an emergency, call 911. Questions? Parkinson’s Foundation Helpline 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636). Conversation Companion won’t suggest changes to medication or diagnose symptoms; it helps you plan for help at home and points you to the Parkinson’s Foundation for more.
How is my data handled?
Your responses are used specifically to help build your shared plan for help at home. We prioritize your privacy and the security of your sensitive conversations. All of your information is held according to Google’s Privacy Policy.
Does Conversation Companion use AI?
Yes, Conversation Companion is powered by Gemini, Google’s AI model. We combine this technology with expert insights and content from the Parkinson’s Foundation to facilitate your conversation. Whether you choose to share your thoughts by typing online or speaking by phone, the tool uses this trusted knowledge and AI to help progress the discussion. It carefully synthesizes the input shared by you and your care group so you can clearly see where you already align and what to focus on next.
How do I delete my account?
You can delete your account at any time. Just click on your user icon on the top right of the page and click “Settings”. Click on the tab “Conversation & Data” and you can click on “Delete entire account”. This action will delete all of your data, including the conversations you’ve had, your login credentials, and notification preferences. If you created a conversation and invited others, deleting your account will delete everyone’s data.