If possible, I speak to my host/hostess ahead of time to point out what works for me, which eliminates their need to dance around the issues and guess. I explain to guests that my reaction time in conversation is a bit longer than normal but if they will be patient, I will respond to comments. I find it is difficult to juggle several conversations at once so I often try to talk with either one person or several people on one topic. "No thank you." serves me well. I also try to avoid just talking about PD as that gets tiresome for me and them. For about 1.5 years I was unable to use my right arm and hand. I asked people to be my designated food cutters, asked for forks in lieu of chopsticks, sat before holding my newborn grandson and avoided soup. We had a lot of laughs and, amazingly enough, with the combination of Sinemet, PD Dance and cycling, I regained the use of the arm and hand about 6 months ago. I still ask for early boarding on planes and don't hesitate to tell people what works for me. They seem grateful for the directions.