Parkinson's disease is the fastest-growing neurological disorder in the world. A couple of educational events in Alaska in May will connect people with Parkinson's and their caregivers to experts. Sessions offer chances to learn about movement as therapy and other issues. The American Parkinson Disease Association, Northwest Chapter, is organizing the events in Anchorage and Juneau.
Anchorage and Juneau will both host events in May to connect members of the community with resources about Parkinson's disease that are organized by the American Parkinson Disease Association.
The event in Juneau is May 6 and it's an afternoon of information. The event in Anchorage is May 9 and it's all day. Both events are titled "Parkinson's today: A conversation on care, treatment and living well." There is also a Parkinson's Care Partner Education Day in Juneau on May 7. It's from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at Riverview Senior Living, 3041 Clinton Drive.
These sessions offer clear explanations, tips, and real-world insights to support living well with PD.
"The reason we do this," said Jen Gillick, program director, American Parkinson Disease Association, Northwest Chapter, "is that Parkinson's is a really, really, complex disorder. Bringing really good quality education to people is critical."
Parkinson's disease is the fastest-growing neurological disorder in the world. The reasons are multifaceted. One of them is there is more awareness about the disease. Another reason is that we are living longer. And finally, Gillick said, is that there are likely environmental causes, such as pesticides and other chemicals that cause neurological changes.
The estimated economic burden of Parkinson's disease in the U.S. is approximately $80 billion per year. The last time it was calculated in 2018, it was $56 billion.
"We need to be funding research," Gillick said. "Research has been absolutely flatlined for the last 10 years.
Alaska also is a state with fewer Parkinson's specialists, so one of the goals of the educational events is connecting people with experts, including telehealth options.
Anchorage event Website - May 9: https://www.apdaparkinson.org/community/northwest/resources-support/pd-educational-programs/live-well-alaska/
SHORT CODE that goes directly to registration: apda.link/anchorage26
Juneau Event Website - May 6: https://www.apdaparkinson.org/community/northwest/upcoming-events-3/juneau/
SHORT CODE that goes directly to registration: apda.link/juneau26
