Stanford PD Community Blog

In mid-November, Parkinson Canada hosted speech therapist Dr. Ianessa Humbert for a webinar on swallowing and saliva challenges in Parkinson’s disease (PD).  She reviewed what normal swallowing is, assessments that can be done of swallowing problems, and treatment.  Dr. Humbert described the risk of aspiration (food or saliva entering the windpipe).  She also discussed drooling and dry mouth.

In early November, the Parkinson Society British Columbia hosted a webinar on Parkinson’s disease (PD) research with Dr. Rebecca Gilbert, the chief scientific officer of the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA).  In this webinar, Dr. Gilbert discussed the funding fellowships and research grants APDA provides, and different areas of research the APDA prioritizes for research.

In early December, the Parkinson Foundation hosted a webinar on skin and bone health in Parkinson’s disease (PD) with neurologist Dr. Nicki Niemann, and metabolic bone disease specialist Dr. Kenneth Lyles. Dr. Niemann first discussed skin issues in PD, noting that skin disorders are common in PD but often overlooked.  Dr. Lyles followed with a presentation on bone health in PD, noting that those with PD have four times higher risk of hip fractures than those without.

In early November, the Parkinson and Movement Disorder (PMD) Alliance hosted a webinar on psychiatric care for people with Parkinson’s disease (PD).  The session featured geriatric neuropsychiatrist Dr. Laura Marsh, who discussed the often untreated psychiatric disorders in PD, and how treating them can improve quality of life.  It’s important for the person with PD or their caregiver to advocate for themselves and educate themselves regarding what to look for as signs of possible mental health issues.  Many neurologists overlook or under-treat mental health symptoms.

In November, the American Parkinson Disease Association’s (APDA’s) Minnesota chapter hosted a session on adaptive technologies, with occupational therapist Matthew White.  Mr. White discussed different device’s, such as electronics (computer, mouse, stylus, TV access, home environment control, phone access, cell phone access), daily activity helpers (cognitive aids, item tracker, medication reminders, daily living tasks, inclusive products (made with accessibility in mind)), digital assistants, academic and vocational skills, and fall detection.  Mr. White also recommended some do-it-yourself options.