Mega Doctor News
An unpredictable and difficult neurological disorder, life with Parkinson’s disease can be difficult to imagine for those receiving an initial diagnosis. Aside from motor symptoms like tremors, rigidity and slow movement, individuals with Parkinson’s may also experience sleep disorders, pain, fatigue and depression.
Parkinson’s is a movement disorder affecting the nervous system that worsens over time. Symptoms typically begin slowly and may be barely noticeable. Tremors can start off soft and light in just one hand or sometimes in the foot or the jaw. While tremors are common, the disorder may also cause stiffness, slowing of movement and balance challenges, which increase the risk of falls.
The second most common neurodegenerative condition after Alzheimer’s, an estimated 500,000 Americans have a confirmed diagnosis of Parkinson’s, per the National Institutes of Health. But, given that so many individuals go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, the actual number is presumed to be closer to one million, with researchers predictingcases will increase to 1.2 million by 2030, per the Parkinson’s Foundation.
Given the progressive nature of the disabilities associated with Parkinson’s, it’s not only the patient that’s affected by the disease. The disorder significantly impacts families, often resulting in emotional, financial and practical challenges for caregivers, including children, spouses, and siblings, who may experience burnout, relationship strain and financial burdens.
In its commitment to the health and wellbeing of the community, the South Texas Health System McAllen Outpatient Rehabilitation Center has launched its Parkinson’s Disease Support Group, which aims to help patientsliving with the disorder and their families cope with the day-to-day realities after their diagnosis.
“By providing education, emotional support and access to valuable resources, the Parkinson’s Disease Support Group is dedicated to empowering individuals with Parkinson’s disease through expert-led discussion, skilled therapy clinician guidance and a welcoming community,” says Isabel Garcia, OTR, OTD, CSRS, Outpatient Therapy Manager, STHS McAllen Outpatient Rehabilitation Center. “We’re here to create a supportive space where members can connect, learn and navigate their journey with Parkinson’s.”
Parkinson’s disease support groups are important for Parkinson’s patients and their caregivers, offering a safe space to share experiences, learn coping strategies and find emotional support, which can help improve quality of life and promote a sense of community.
In fact, research consistently shows that Parkinson’s support groups are beneficial to individuals with the condition and their caregivers while providing access to valuable information and resources.
“Given the socioeconomic obstacles in the Rio Grande Valley, many individuals do not have access to consistent medical care or therapy,” says Garcia. “This group ensures that those in need can take advantage of available resources, which helps reduce feelings of isolation and empowers them with knowledge that can aid in improving their overall quality of life.”
During the support group’s inaugural meeting in February, Garcia and Abigail Acevedo, PT, DPT led a special presentation focused on fall risk and recovery.
“Some falls result in minor scrapes or bruises, but others can have lasting effects on mobility and independence,” says Garcia. “Learning how Parkinson’s affects balance and taking steps to lower a patient’s fall risk can maximize their safety and independence.”
Each support group meeting will give patients the opportunity to socialize with one another, learn about diverse topics related to healthy living and engage in physical therapist-led exercises that will help improve their ability to participate in daily activities.
Meeting every third Tuesday of the month from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Private Dining Room at STHSMcAllen, the group is open to all individuals with Parkinson’s disease, as well as their caregivers, family members and friends.
“We recognize the vital role that personal support systems play and the critical benefits a support group like this can provide,” says Garcia. “We envision expanding our reach, securing additional resources to further our group development and offer more direct assistance in treating and raising awareness for all individuals across the Rio Grande Valley diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.”
For more information or to RSVP for an upcoming Parkinson’s Disease Support Group meeting, call 956-971-5640 or visit https://www.southtexashealthsystemmcallen.com/parkinson%E2%80%99s-disease-support-group.
