By Suellen Rath, Kiama Support Group Leader
Parkinson’s Support Kiama recently hosted a Parkinson’s Information Seminar at Kiama Leagues Club, bringing together over 100 people living with Parkinson’s, carers, family members and health professionals from across the region.
Participants were provided with a day of information, conversation and connection and an opportunity to hear from leading specialists.
With the theme Seeing the Whole Picture – Beyond Movement the seminar looked beyond the more familiar movement symptoms of Parkinson’s to explore some of the less visible, and often overlooked, aspects of the disease.
- Dr Owen Chan (Neurologist) spoke about understanding Parkinson’s as a complex condition and taking a broader approach to its management.
- Dr Craig Wilson (Dentist) explored the important connection between oral health and general health and the overlooked impact of Parkinson’s that can arise.
- Dr Steven Yun (Ophthalmologist) discussed the ways Parkinson’s can affect vision and visual processing.
- Beth Causa (Speech Pathologist) addressed issues impacting speech, swallowing and communication.
- Mary Kay Walker (CEO, Parkinson’s NSW) was MC for the event and also provided an update on the National Parkinson’s Action Plan.
The program included plenty of opportunities for questions and discussion, with a Q&A panel involving the guest speakers rounding off the day.
The combination of expert presentations, practical information and the opportunity to talk with others made for a very positive and engaging day.
The positive feedback we have received reinforces just how valuable access to reliable information, specialist advice and connection with others can be for people living with Parkinson’s and their families. We are grateful to everyone who contributed to making the day such a success.
