Living with PD? Tap into Key Parkinson's Resources

The Parkinson Association of Alabama (PAA) offers many opportunities for those living with Parkinson’s and their families to learn as much about Parkinson’s as possible. We believe education empowers you to discern your best treatment and wellness plan. And much of that education cannot be covered in one doctor’s appointment a year with your specialist. To advocate for your care, we encourage you to explore these FREE resources and connect with your local Parkinson’s Community.

PARKINSON’S DISEASE RESOURCE CENTER In March of 2023, the PAA launched its online Parkinson’s Disease Resource Center at www.parkinsonalabama.info. This website provides a wealth of information to learn more about Parkinson’s, understand the best treatment and therapy options, and address common topics and questions related to Parkinson’s.

CARE NAVIGATION SESSIONS For those newly diagnosed, or that need a more guided approach to resources that will matter most to you, the PAA offers Care Navigation sessions. These confidential, one-hour sessions allow you to speak with our Care Navigator who will work to understand your specific journey and provide tailored resources to meet your needs. To book your care navigation session, email Brooklyn White at brooklyn@parkinsonalabama.org, or call 1.833.473.5465, ext. 2.

WEBINARS Launching in June, the PAA has partnered with UAB Movement Disorder Specialist to offer a quarterly, livestream webinar series via zoom. The first session will kick off on Tuesday, June 6th with Dr. David Standaert, Chair of UAB’s Neurology Department and Movement Disorders Clinic providing an update on research and current clinical trial offerings at UAB. Participants are encouraged to attend the live session to participate in the Q&A, but a recording of the seminar will be available on the website to watch at your convenience. You can learn more about the webinars and register at https://www.parkinsonalabama.com/event-details/lunch-with-the-uab-docs

SUPPORT GROUPS There are more than 22 support groups that meet throughout Alabama. Connecting with your local community of Parkinson’s patients can bring encouragement, hope and camaraderie. Alabama Parkinson’s Support Group Facilitators work hard to bring excellent education and programming initiatives. Find your local support group at: https://www.parkinsonalabama.com/paa-support-groups

If you don’t have a local support group, or the group that meets local to you is inconvenient, there are other opportunities to connect with fellow Alabamians on a Parkinson’s journey. Beginning June 7th on the first Wednesday of each month at 10am, we will host a virtual support group via zoom. Each month we will discuss a different topic and share tips and strategies for helping us to live our highest quality of life with Parkinson’s. The zoom link is: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81641695792

MOVEMENT GROUPS

In addition to support groups, there are more than 20 movement groups throughout Alabama. Movement Groups are designed as Parkinson’s specific exercise programs and classes such as Rock Steady Boxing, PD Fight Club, Dance for PD, and Total Parkinson’s. To see a listing of movement classes closest to you, go to: https://www.parkinsonalabama.com/paa-movement-groups

FACEBOOK GROUP The PAA has recently launched a group on Facebook specifically for Alabamians living with PD. Each week, we post an educational article to help with your overall journey with Parkinson’s. It also gives you an opportunity to reach out and connect with other group members – ask questions and share resources. You can request to join this group by going to this link through your Facebook ap: https://www.facebook.com/groups/560182778912186

If you ever have questions about any of the programs specific to those Living with Parkinson’s, please contact our Director of Marketing and Programs, Brooklyn White at brooklyn@parkinsonalabama.org.