Roughly 1.5 million people are affected by Parkinson’s Disease in the United States, and to help navigate the often times slow moving disease, the Michigan Parkinson Foundation is teaming with the Michigan State University Movement Disorder Clinic to provide a free program.
The program, Living with Parkinson’s Lecture series, is to help those who have been diagnosed with the disease become more aware of treatments, medication, symptoms and more.
“We want you to be knowledgeable about the disease, and really be a team player,” said Denise Van Etten, RN at the MSU Neurological and Movement Disorder Clinic. (Being informed and knowledgeable) will make visits a little more efficient, and it will give you a better idea of what we are looking for at the office.”
Van Etten spoke at the first session held Tuesday, and did an introduction on Parkinson’s, including how it is usually diagnosed, and some of the things people can expect when visiting their health professional.
“We want to teach them and inform them on how to manage day-to-day living, and have the best life they can have,” said CEO of Michigan Parkinson Foundation Mary Sue Lanigan.
The course consists of six lectures, and held every Tuesday. The first lecture was an overview of Parkinson’s Disease, and how it is diagnosed.
Upcoming lectures include managing medications, non-motor symptoms, being captain of your own ship, speech and swallowing issues, mental health issues and physical and occupational therapy.
The program is for those with Parkinson’s Disease and their family members and care providers. The lectures are free of charge, but space is limited. To register, contact Mary Sue Lanigan at 800-852-9781.
The lectures are held from 1 to 3 p.m. at the University Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall at 1020 S. Harrison Road in East Lansing.
During the program, participants also receive information regarding the Michigan Parkinson Foundation, and ways they can help those with the disease as well as assistance provided. The foundation helps provide financial assistance for qualified low-income patients.
For more information on the Michigan Parkinson Foundation, click here.
