Blog

Looking for Answers and Support?

01/20/2012

Here’s the scenario: You, your family member, friend or neighbor has Parkinson's Disease (PD). And, you wonder… “How will this disease affect me?” “Where should I turn for support?”

Where do you go to get information about PD? Do you search the internet, go to the library, the bookstore or ask a medical professional? Is ignorance bliss or is knowledge and education power?

Our mission at the Parkinson Association of the Rockies (PAR) is to educate you and empower you to understand Parkinson's and how it affects you individually. And, we recognize that everyone needs to learn at their own pace, which is why at PAR we have many options to get answers and support.

We provide support through phone conversations to answer questions and give referrals. We also offer in-home case assessments to help problem solve and provide suggestions to help you achieve the best quality of life possible.

And, if you’re looking for more regular support from others who are also affected by PD – we have many Support Groups to participate in. By visiting support groups, you can learn new strategies for dealing with the symptoms of PD. For instance, at the Boulder Support Group, a gentleman suggested something he has found to help him improve his handwriting. He said that by squeezing his hands in a fist and then letting it go, like you are catching flies, he has seen a significant change in his writing in a month’s time.

At the Englewood Support Group a few people mentioned they were having difficulty swallowing their pills. A suggestion was made to try to take pills with carbonated water to help get the meds down easier.

Other options to interact with those who have PD are joining our dance classes, exercise classes or Tremble Clefs. By being a part of the Parkinson Community, you can learn new ways to cope and deal with PD and have fun at the same time.

Remember, medical information should be addressed to your medical team. We at the Parkinson Association are a component to help you through this journey of your life – but developing strong relationships with very open lines of communication with your medical team is vital to your health.

If you would like more information please to contact us at the Parkinson Association at (303) 830-1839 or the Information and Referral line at (303) 861-1810.

Fondly,
Cari Friedman