Stanford PD Community Blog

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.

In July, PMD Alliance held a webinar during which the speaker, social worker Erin Cecchi, focused on how important it is for care partners to ask for help.  The speaker addressed barriers to asking help, the strain of care on care partners, the risk of care partners’ own declining health, how to build a support network, and whom to ask before you “hit the wall.”  Erin said that there is a wealth of information available by speaking to other caregivers who can provide many ideas on caring for your loved one with Parkinson’s disease (PD) as well as enjoying your own life.  As care partners can experience high levels of physical and mental stress, Erin noted that caregivers taking care of their own mental health needs is just as important as taking care of their physical health.