Not surprisingly, the COVID-19 pandemic has forced the cancellation of many events usually held during Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month. Even so, virtual events are still being held as planned. To that end, the Parkinson’s Foundation and AARP are hosting a webinar on April 30th, which should be available afterward on their websites. The purpose is to provide comprehensive information about Parkinson’s Disease for newly diagnosed patients and caregivers.
This is just one resource available to you if you believe someone you love may have Parkinson’s Disease, or if a loved one is trying to cope with a recent diagnosis. We know this is just a start to the information you need and want to provide additional resources for you and your loved ones right here.
The following organizations provide general information and support for people with Parkinson’s Disease:
1. The Parkinson’s Foundation offers access to a comprehensive online library, Helpline, podcasts, webinars, online discussion groups and local resources. It also provides information specifically for newly diagnosed patients.
2. The American Parkinson Disease Association provides education and support through its local chapters and support groups. In all it has more than 1,400 support groups throughout the United States. It also offers online resources, including access to its webinars through its website.
3. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke provides detailed information about Parkinson’s Disease, treatment and prognosis on its website. It also provides links to relevant publications and other advocacy/support groups.
4. Parkinson’s Disease Research, Education and Clinical Centers are coordinated through the Department of Veterans Affairs, these groups help U.S. veterans who have the movement disorder. Support available through the main webpage includes access to a telephone hotline, links to publications, and links to local and regional centers.
Many of these organizations and groups we have just detailed may also provide information about research, treatment, clinical trials and related topics. Additional resources dedicated to these subjects include:
1. The Michael J. Fox Foundation which provides updates about the latest research, and information about its approach to funding research that advances treatment.
2. The Parkinson’s Institute and Clinical Center which provides patients with information about and access to clinical trials and relevant research.
3. The Parkinson Alliance which provides information about the research it supports, patient-centered research, and relevant insights.
Unfortunately, Parkinson’s Disease has long been recognized as a progressive condition that is likely to have a dramatic impact on a patient’s quality of life. Along with the medical implications associated with a new diagnosis, there may be legal implications, too.
Specifically, you and your loved ones may want to create Florida health care documents to ensure that your wishes are honored. This is just the start of the Florida estate plan you may need, which we can discuss in detail together. If so, know that we are here to help. Please feel free to contact us to arrange an appointment to learn more at any time.