April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month, a time to educate ourselves and raise awareness about this debilitating disease.
The Kensington Reston, a leader in senior care, has partnered with leading Movement Disorders Specialists to bring you an engaging discussion about the latest breakthrough innovations in Parkinson’s treatment.
This event is an ideal opportunity to learn more about the disease and the advancements being made in the medical field. Whether you’re a caregiver or someone living with Parkinson’s, this discussion can provide anyone with invaluable insight and information.
Click here to watch our informative event and participate in the movement toward a better understanding of Parkinson’s disease.
Together, we can make a difference, especially in the lives of those affected by this condition.
Let’s come together and make a positive impact during Parkinson’s Awareness Month.
Promoting awareness of Parkinson’s disease
While the main purpose of our online event is to discuss innovations for Parkinson’s treatments, it’s also important to raise awareness about this debilitating condition.
Parkinson’s disease affects millions of people around the world, and the search for new and more effective treatments is ongoing.
The big benefit of online educational events like this is how they can provide an opportunity for experts in the field to share the latest research and developments in Parkinson’s treatments. Caregivers and loved ones alike can join for free and learn more about how to manage the disease.
What is Parkinson’s disease?
In general, Parkinson’s disease is a chronic and progressive disorder of the nervous system that will affect movement caused by the loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain.
The symptoms of Parkinson’s disease usually develop slowly over time and can include tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with coordination and balance. While there is sadly no cure for Parkinson’s disease, a variety of treatments are available to help manage the symptoms.
Two neuroscience experts who will discuss the newest definition of Parkinson’s Disease (PD) and why the definition had to change.
Why is Parkinson’s disease so difficult to treat?
One of the major challenges in treating Parkinson’s disease is the fact that symptoms can vary widely from person to person. This variation means that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment.
However, several medications can help alleviate symptoms such as tremors and stiffness. These medications work by increasing the levels of dopamine throughout the brain, which can help improve motor function.
Current Parkinson’s treatments
In addition to medication, various other treatments are available for Parkinson’s disease. These might include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and deep brain stimulation.
Each of these treatments is designed to help manage specific symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and can be tailored to each patient.
Overall, Parkinson’s disease is a complex condition requiring a multidisciplinary treatment approach. Our online event promoting innovations for Parkinson’s treatments can provide a valuable opportunity for those with Parkinson’s disease, caregivers, and healthcare professionals to learn more about the latest developments in this field and to work together to find better ways to manage this debilitating condition.
What experts were there for this event?
The Kensington Reston is very pleased to have hosted two respected and well-accredited Neurology experts who have agreed to participate in this discussion.
Michele Tagliati, M.D.
Michele Tagliati, MD, is a renowned figure, serving as the Director of the Movement Disorders Program, Vice Chair of the Department of Neurology, and a Professor of Neurology at Cedars-Sinai.
His area of expertise lies in studying early and advanced therapeutics of movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and dystonia. Tagliati has played a significant role in the development of deep brain stimulation for Parkinson’s and dystonia treatment, contributing to the identification of outcome predictors and therapeutic settings of DBS.
Currently, his research focuses on exploring the nonmotor and nondopaminergic systems in the pathophysiology of Parkinson’s.
Jeff Bronstein, M.D. and Ph.D.
At the David Geffen School of Medicine (part of UCLA), Jeff Bronstein holds the Director of Movement Disorders position and is a Neurology Professor. His bachelor’s degree was earned at the University of California, Berkeley, and his M.D. and Ph.D. from UCLA under the Medical Scientist Training Program Award.
Dr. Bronstein undertook his residency in Neurology and fellowship training in Movement Disorders at UCLA and Queens Square in London. Before he was appointed Director of the Movement Disorders Program at UCLA in 1996, he completed a postdoctoral fellowship in molecular biology.
Dr. Bronstein’s research interests are centered around investigating the causes of PD in his basic science laboratory. Additionally, he specializes in the medical and surgical management of Parkinson’s disease, Wilson’s disease, and other movement disorders.
The challenges of Parkinson’s care
For those who care for Parkinson’s patients, the challenges can be immense.
Parkinson’s care requires a great deal of patience, empathy, and understanding. Caregivers often struggle to balance their needs with those of their loved ones.
The physical demands of Parkinson’s care
One of the most significant challenges caregivers of Parkinson’s patients face is the physical demands of caregiving. Parkinson’s patients often require assistance with daily tasks, such as bathing, dressing, and eating.
This demand can be physically exhausting for caregivers, who may find themselves lifting and supporting their loved ones for extended periods. Additionally, Parkinson’s patients may experience mobility issues, making it difficult for caregivers to keep them safe and comfortable.
Emotional support and Parkinson’s care
Another challenge that caregivers of Parkinson’s patients face is emotional support. Caring for someone with Parkinson’s can be emotionally draining, and caregivers often find themselves struggling with feelings of guilt, frustration, and sadness.
Caregivers may frequently feel isolated and alone, as caregiving can be a full-time job that leaves little time for personal interests or social activities. Many caregivers must develop ways to cope with their emotions and seek support from others who understand their situation.
Financial challenges of Parkinson’s care
Finally, Parkinson’s care can be financially burdensome. Caregivers may need to take time off work or reduce their hours to provide care, impacting their income and financial stability.
Additionally, those living with Parkinson’s may require expensive medications, equipment, and medical care, which can strain the family budget. Caregivers must find ways to manage their finances and seek out resources to help offset the cost of care when they are not earning income.
Breakthrough innovations in Parkinson’s treatments
Parkinson’s care presents a range of challenges for caregivers.
From the physical demands of caregiving to the emotional toll it can take, caring for someone with Parkinson’s requires a great deal of skill, patience, and support.
Caregivers must seek out resources and support to help them manage the challenges of Parkinson’s care and maintain their health and well-being.
The Kensington Reston has seen families’ struggles when one of their own is dealing with Parkinson’s disease. Our staff members, who adhere to Our Promise of caring for residents as they would their own family, every day, know that rehabilitation and medical assistance is often not enough to maintain a quality of life.
The personal connections caregivers make with someone with Parkinson’s disease are frequently the most beneficial therapy that enables them to enrich everyone’s life.
If you want to learn about Reston’s rehabilitation and therapy facilities, as well as our dedicated memory care neighborhoods for those with dementia or similar conditions, reach out to us.