Parkinson Voice Enhancing Lives, Connecting Communities 3 4 5 7 Support Groups in Colorado Upcoming Events Clinical Research Forum What is an Adult Day Center? Randy Gombein Ask the Experts Update from the Parkinson Action Network You have just received a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease (PD) or perhaps you have been living with PD for many years. Either way, you are probably wondering what steps are important for living your best. Parkinson’s disease is a lifelong journey. Like any journey, there is uncertainty about what lies ahead - concern for how things will change or where your life with PD will take you. This concern is one of the more common questions I hear. As a Movement Disorder Neurologist and Integrative Medicine Specialist, I believe in the power of a proactive and holistic approach to set your course in the best direction. No one can predict their future but there are important steps to take that will shape and/or direct your future. Like any journey, the first step is to set goals. Learn as much as you can, take deliberate actions step by step, prepare for change and be flexible if you have to change gears mid-stream. The following steps will help you chart your course: Set the Course Knowledge is Power. Learn as much as you can about Parkinson’s symptoms and treatment. Think about how you respond best to a new challenge. Ask yourself if you are someone who does best by learning everything up-front or will more information add worry and stress? If the latter, do you need guidance to help you digest this information in order to formulate a plan for the future? Be Proactive. With this newly gained knowledge you can work on changes today to move your future in a positive direction. • Be in control of your health care. The best medicine is teamwork and you are the captain of your team. Lead the team by understanding your symptoms and recognize your stress levels. Keep medicine lists and medical history up to date. Organize your medical information and important data in one place so that you can easily access it in years to come. Set Goals. Establish priorities, values and what is important to you. As an individual it is important to first identify, then voice these preferences and goals. Be mindful of the time commitment and set realistic goals. Goals may need to be modified over time; sometimes you may undershoot or overshoot what is possible within your lifestyle. This will keep you moving forward in a positive direction. • Be in charge of your treatment. Take the driver’s seat, not the back seat. Ask questions. Understand why a specific treatment is recommended. Be realistic and honest about what you can do, or simply cannot do. Look beyond just medication or surgery and include personal lifestyle changes that make huge impacts in how you feel now and over time. Setting Your Course: Living Your Best with Parkinson’s Disease By Dr. Monique Giroux, Movement and Neuroperformance Center of Colorado Parkinson’s Awareness Month Did you know there are 17,000 Coloradoans living with Parkinson’s disease and approximately 170 individuals in the US are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease daily? April is National Parkinson’s Awareness Month. Throughout the U.S., organizations may urge their community to plant tulips, sign proclamations, wear silver-colored ribbons and more. In Colorado, the Parkinson Association is reaching out into the community to urge restaurants, businesses, individuals and even sports teams to create awareness and show support. Join us at one of the following community events or create your own! April Events 1 • Proclamations Signed by Governor and city Mayors 12 • Managing Parkinson’s Disease, Fort Morgan 17 • bd’s Mongolian Grill PD Night 20 • Clinical Research Forum 23 • Parkinson Association Night at the Rockies 25 • Spaghetti Western Dinner at Atria Inn Lakewood 27 • The Doctor Is In, Roaring Fork Valley For more information please call (303) 830-1839 SPRING 2013 Volume 5, Issue 1 Continued on page 2 Photo Courtesy of: Happy Trails Photography | Aurora, CO
Ask the ExpertsUpdate from the Parkinson Action Network
You have just received a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease (PD) or perhaps you have been living with PD for many years. Either way, you are probably wondering what steps are important for living your best. Parkinson’s disease is a lifelong journey. Like any journey, there is uncertainty about what lies ahead - concern for how things will change or where your life with PD will take you. This concern is one of the more common questions I hear. As a Movement Disorder Neurologist and Integrative Medicine Specialist, I believe in the power of a proactive and holistic approach to set your course in the best direction.
No one can predict their future but there are important steps to take that will shape and/or direct your future. Like any journey, the first step is to set goals. Learn as much as you can, take deliberate actions step by step, prepare for change and be flexible if you have to change gears mid-stream.
The following steps will help you chart your course: Set the CourseKnowledge is Power. Learn as much as you can about Parkinson’s symptoms and treatment. Think about how you respond best to a new challenge. Ask yourself if you are someone who does best by learning everything up-front or will more information add worry and stress? If the latter, do you need guidance to help you digest this information in order to formulate a plan for the future?Be Proactive. With this newly gained knowledge you can work on changes today to move your future in a positive direction.• Be in control of your health care.
The best medicine is teamwork and you are the captain of your team. Lead the team by understanding
your symptoms and recognize your stress levels. Keep medicine lists and medical history up to date. Organize your medical information and important data in one place so that you can easily access it in years to come.
Set Goals. Establish priorities, values and what is important to you. As an individual it is important to first identify, then voice these preferences and goals. Be mindful of the time commitment and set realistic goals. Goals may need to be modified over time; sometimes you may undershoot or overshoot what is possible within your lifestyle. This will keep you moving forward in a positive direction.• Be in charge of your treatment. Take
the driver’s seat, not the back seat. Ask questions. Understand why a specific treatment is recommended. Be realistic and honest about what you can do, or simply cannot do. Look beyond just medication or surgery and include personal lifestyle changes that make huge impacts in how you feel now and over time.
Setting Your Course: Living Your Best with Parkinson’s DiseaseBy Dr. Monique Giroux, Movement and Neuroperformance Center of Colorado
Parkinson’sAwareness Month
Did you know there are 17,000 Coloradoans living with Parkinson’s disease and approximately 170 individuals in the US are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease daily?
April is National Parkinson’s Awareness Month. Throughout the U.S., organizations may urge their community to plant tulips, sign proclamations, wear silver-colored ribbons and more.
In Colorado, the Parkinson Association is reaching out into the community to urge restaurants, businesses, individuals and even sports teams to create awareness and show support. Join us at one of the following community events or create your own!
April Events1 • Proclamations Signed by Governor and city Mayors12 • Managing Parkinson’s Disease, Fort Morgan17 • bd’s Mongolian Grill PD Night20 • Clinical Research Forum23 • Parkinson Association Night at the Rockies25 • Spaghetti Western Dinner at Atria Inn Lakewood27 • The Doctor Is In, Roaring Fork Valley
For more information please call (303) 830-1839
SPRING 2013Volume 5, Issue 1
Continued on page 2
Photo Courtesy of:Happy Trails Photography | Aurora, CO
Setting Your Course from page 1
Set Priorities. Focus your intentions on what is important to you. Often living with a chronic condition brings forth an opportunity to reset priorities. For example, if walking and balance are important - don’t wait. Work with a physical therapist now, focus on exercise and fitness, use a personal trainer to keep you going. Begin right away before it is a problem. Or maybe your focus is not even PD itself but the need to reconnect with family, friends or others that are important to you. Enhance Resiliency
Resiliency is the ability to overcome life’s obstacles, detours and bumps in the road. Resiliency is like an emergency toolkit, giving you the aid to fall back on when things get difficult. Enhancing resiliency means more than just tackling the physical symptoms of PD but adds the power-tools of thought, attitude and personal healing to the toolkit.Physical. Parkinson’s can affect strength, power, stamina and agility. Be strong. Take your exercise and fitness to the next level. Moving through life requires a balanced routine over a focused one. Do what you can to improve strength, flexibility, posture, balance, aerobic capacity, coordination and agility. Again, balance is key. A physical therapist will help you prioritize and safely tailor your program to your symptoms, goals and current fitness level.Emotional. Your mood and attitude will be your co-pilot on this journey leading you in one direction or the other.• Depression and anxiety. These can be symptoms of
PD and truly color the way you see your world. Take the time to learn about these problems and talk to your health care provider about these concerns and treatment. Depression can limit what you see as possible, putting blinders on life’s journey, so that you do not see or experience life’s joy, the positive moments or believe that positive solutions exist.
• Attitude and gratitude. Attitude plays a big role in how you feel, adapt and respond to life’s changes and how you handle the bumps in the road. Positive thoughts shape how we feel, give us hope, expand
the possibilities we see and can, as a result, change the course of the disease. Be sure to fill your day with positive activities and thoughts. Focus on what you can do, what you are already doing and search for new opportunities. Avoid focusing on the things you can’t do. Surround yourself with positive people and a positive environment. Help foster a positive environment at your support group rather than only focusing on problems. Finally, remember gratitude. Take a moment each day to reflect on what and to whom you are grateful. Remember the care partner in your life. Research proves that this will pay off down the road.
Spiritual. This brings attention to what brings value, meaning and purpose in life. In other words, the connection between you and your world, to ideas and to others. • Meaning. It can be helpful to reflect on what is
meaningful to you so that you can focus your energy, passion and time on these things.
• Support. Support from others goes a long way. Family, friends and community are a part of this journey. Just knowing you are not alone can be therapeutic. Remember to give as well as receive. For instance, support groups are a wonderful way to get the support you need and also provide an opportunity to reach out and support others.
• Personal Healing. Understanding how you cope with change can open up new opportunities or strategies to live your best with Parkinson’s instead of feeling overwhelmed by PD.
Re-Evaluate Your PositionLiving and feeling your best with PD takes a
multifaceted approach. Medication and surgery are an important part of your therapy. You will enhance your results if you couple these treatments with positive lifestyle changes. A focus on positive lifestyle changes can be healing as it gives you a sense of control, improves your health on many levels and engages you in your care and well-being. One healthy change often leads to another. Making one simple change to your lifestyle at a time allows the change to become a positive habit over your lifetime. Diet. Our diet impacts our energy, mood and physical health. Research now supports the benefit of diet for brain health, cognition and disease prevention. The Mediterranean diet is high in anti-oxidant potent fruits and vegetables, as well as healthy fats from fish and olive oil. Diets low in red meat and processed foods are associated with longer life-span and reduced risk of disease including PD, stroke and dementia. Don’t look for all of this in a pill. There is little evidence that vitamins and supplements have the healing power of food.
Exercise. Have you heard the saying - use it or lose it? Exercise improves general health, can reduce symptoms, improve stamina, motor performance, mood, cognition, energy levels and self-confidence. Exercise promotes brain changes called neuroplasticity. Ask for a referral for a physical therapist to help you get started or to modify your workout if you are already exercising. Mix fun, community, challenge and creativity for best results. Consider exploring classes that combine music, dance, creative movement, mind-body techniques and explore new ways to move.Stress. Stress can worsen symptoms, fatigue, mood, motivation and impacts your relationships. Chronic stress contributes to disease and unhealthy brain changes. The effects of stress are so powerful that it can counteract or limit benefits from treatment. Think about how stress affects you. Learn to recognize it so you can do something about it. Simplify life. Remove yourself from stressful situations when possible and, most of all, modify how you respond to stress. Mind-body therapies such as counseling, hypnosis, guided imagery, relaxation, massage, meditation and even simply paying attention to your breath will reduce the negative effects of stress on the body and mind. Life Planning. The unknown can be scary and these worries can prevent you from planning for the future. As scary as these worries may be, simply talking about them and planning for change helps alleviate some of these fears. What resources and options do you have for the future if you decide to stop working? How will you spend your retirement and what changes will you need to make in your home for ease and safety? Life planning includes establishing a will, power of attorney and advance directives. Talk to your family about your wishes for end-of-life care related issues and treatment before these decisions need to be made. Community and Relationships. Celebrate the care partner in your life by showing your gratitude. Care partners, or caregivers, are essential to living your best on your journey with PD. Volunteer or lend a helping hand to others if you can. Look to your community for classes and programs that can help you with some of these steps.
Setting your course with PD puts you in charge of many aspects that can make a difference over the years. Defining your goals for your doctor and care partner will help them understand you as an individual. Most importantly, celebrate your accomplishments and keep moving forward.
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ARVADA 3rd Thursday • 1:00pm Community Recreation Center of Apex6842 Wadsworth Blvd.Host: Melinda Yeary (720) 291-5200
AURORA 1st Wednesday • 10:00am H.G. Clubhouse, Mountain View Room2888 S. Heather Gardens Way Host: Charyn Betka (303) 341-6286
BASALT Roaring Fork Valley • 5:00pm3rd Thursday of odd monthsEl Jebel Community Center0020 Eagle County Dr.Host: [email protected]
BOULDER 3rd Tuesday • 10:00amEast Boulder Senior Center 5660 Sioux Dr. Host: Paul Browne (303) 494-4822
BRUSH Quarterly Meetings Contact Support Group Leader Eben Ezer Lutheran Care Center 122 Hospital Rd.Host: Dan Scalise (970) 842-2861
BROOMFIELD 1st Tuesday • 10:30am Broomfield Community Center 280 Lamar St.Host: Ellie McKinley (303) 466-0843 Host: Betty Calvin (303) 466-9166
HIGHLANDS RANCH4th Tuesday • 10:00amHighlands Ranch Library9292 Ridgeline Blvd.Host: Barbara Coddington (303) 795-0401Host: Carol Johnson (303) 346-4377
Windcrest Community3rd Friday • 10:00am3235 Mill Vista Rd.Host: Nikki King (303) 876-8245
LAFAYETTENewly Diagnosed • 5:30pm4th Thursday of every other monthExempla Good Samaritan Medical Center200 Exempla Cr., Conference RoomHost: Tiffany Malin (303) 689-5253
Deep Brain Stimulation • 5:30pm4th Thursday of every other monthExempla Good Samaritan Medical Center200 Exempla Cr., Conference RoomHost: Tiffany Malin (303) 689-5253
LITTLETONLast Wednesday • 10:00amMorning Star Senior Living5344 S. Kipling Pkwy.Host: John Venema (303) 238-0107
LONGMONT2nd Wednesday • 10:00amLongs Peak United Methodist Church1421 Elmhurst Dr.Host: Bob Penn (303) 772-0429
WESTMINSTER4th Friday • 1:00pmSunrise of Westminster10300 N. Sheridan Blvd., Mtn. View CottageHost: Melinda Yeary (720) 291-5200
Support GroupsFor Care Partner specific Support Groups, please visit page 4. For Support Groups in Wyoming and Nebraska please visit the Patients tab at www.ParkinsonRockies.org.
Upcoming EventsFor more information or to register for any of the following events, please call (303) 830-1839 or email [email protected]. April 17 • 1:00 - 3:00pm Non-Motor Symptoms • Gastrointestinal, Sensory and Autonomic Symptoms Arvada Covenant Church, 5555 Ward Rd., Arvada, CO 80002
April 20 • 8:30am - 1:15pm Clinical Research Forum: Parkinson’s Research in ColoradoMile Hi Church, 9077 W. Alameda Ave., Lakewood, CO 80226
April 27 • 10:00am - 2:00pm The Doctor Is In • Roaring Fork Valley Wellness Changes for Brain Health, Dr. Monique Giroux Rhythm & Grace, Stephen Straub El Jebel Community Center, 0020 Eagle County Dr., El Jebel, CO 81623
April 30 • 1:00 - 4:00pm Financial and Legal Planning Seminar Parkinson Association of the Rockies, 1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Denver, CO 80222
May 4 • 10:00am - 2:00pm The Doctor Is In • Grand Junction Common Health Issues & Parkinson’s, Dr. Mihaela Alexander Gaining Independence through Home Modifications, Nathan Colburn Country Inns of America, 718 Horizon Dr., Grand Junction, CO 81506
May 21 • 6:00 - 8:00pm Care Partners Mini Series • Session I Tips and Tricks in Physical Care of a Person with Parkinson’s What’s on the Horizon for Parkinson’s, Available Services and Care Partner BurnoutCovenant Village of Colorado, 9153 Yarrow St., Westminster, CO 80021
June 18 • 6:00 - 8:00pm Care Partners Mini Series • Session II Communication and Parkinson’s Planning Ahead and Advocating for your FamilyCovenant Village of Colorado, 9153 Yarrow St., Westminster, CO 80021
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Saturday, April 20th • 8:30am - 1:15pm • Mile Hi Church, 9077 W. Alameda Ave., Lakewood, CO 80226To register for this FREE forum please visit http://bit.ly/coloradoclinicalresearch or call (303) 830-1839.
The Facts: It may take 15 years to develop a potential treatment for Parkinson’s disease • 90% of clinical studies in the US are delayed due to lack of participants • Less than 1% of people with Parkinson’s disease are doing the heavy lifting towards finding a cure or treatment for PD by participating in clinical trials • Parkinson’s research and clinical trials are happening right here in Colorado
The Parkinson Association of the Rockies in collaboration with Colorado Neurological Institute, Davis Phinney Foundation, Parkinson’s Disease Foundation and the University of Colorado invite you to explore the inroads being made in Colorado towards new treatments and therapies that may redefine care for Parkinson’s disease. By attending the Clinical Research Forum: Parkinson’s Research in Colorado, you will have the opportunity to learn more about available clinical trials for various modalities of treatment including medications, alternative therapies and surgical treatments. Learn how you, as a clinical trial participant, are protected. Join the open discussions with trial participants and family members about how they decided to participate in clinical trials. Learn how to register for the Fox Trial Finder through a representative from the Michael J. Fox Foundation. Talk with the research coordinators one-on-one to learn more about the available opportunities to join the initiative towards better treatments and the eventual cure for Parkinson’s disease.
Clinical Research Forum:Parkinson’s Research in Colorado
Care PartnerSupport GroupsBROOMFIELDCare Partners Support Group2nd Friday • 10:00am • Every Other MonthBroomfield Community Center , 280 Lamar St. Host: Ellie McKinley (303) 466-0843 Host: Betty Calvin (303) 466-9166
COLORADO SPRINGS East Side Caregivers3rd Thursday/Friday • 2:00pm www.co-parkinson.org
DENVERCare Partners Support Group4th Wednesday • 6:30pmScheitler Recreation Center, 5031 W. 46th Ave.Host: Francis Scheve, [email protected]: Debbie Jones, [email protected]
ENGLEWOODMSA/PSP Care Partner Group 4th Friday • 10:00amJohnson Adult Day Center, 3444 S. Emerson St.Host: Helenn Franzgrote (303) 789-9900
STEAMBOAT SPRINGSCare Partners Support Group3rd Thursday • 4:00pmYampa Valley Medical Center, Conference Room1024 Central Park Dr.Host: Pat Bemis, (970) 871-8975Host: Sheri Steiner, (970) 879-0518
PAR for the Course Exercise Balance & Strength Classes Higher Intensity: for individuals early in the diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease Low Intensity: for individuals who need assistance with mobility
Wednesday’s2:00 - 3:00pmSouthwest YMCA5181 W. Kenyon Ave., Denver
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What is an Adult Day Center?By Randy Gombein, SarahCare Adult Day Center at the DTC• Is your mother spending the entire day sitting
in front of the television? • Are you spending time at work being non-
productive because you are worried that your father has fallen, forgotten to take his medication or has not eaten anything all day?
• Do you feel tired and/or overwhelmed most of the time?
• Do you miss being able to meet your friends for lunch or play a round of golf?
Adult Day Centers are designed to serve seniors who are frail, isolated, have a physical impairment such as Parkinson’s disease, stroke or have a cognitive impairment such as some form of dementia.
Seniors who attend Adult Day Centers have varied opportunities to meet and be with friends, enjoy delicious catered meals including, special diets, and assistance with personal care including bathing. Some Centers offer professional nursing services (RN and LPN) including the administration of medications. Additional services may include the provision of transportation, podiatry, physical, occupational and speech therapy services, weekly outings, salon services and care partner support groups.
Adult Day Care Centers are usually open from 7am to 6pm, Monday through Friday. Some Centers are also available during the evenings and on Saturday and/or Sunday.
The average cost for an Adult Day Center is much less than a visit from a home health nurse and about half the cost of skilled nursing care. Assistance with funding is available from Long Term Care Insurance and Medicaid. In some areas, funding assistance may also be available from the Veteran’s Administration, nursing home diversion and other programs.
A checklist for comparing Adult Day Centers in addition to identifying locations is available on the website of the National Adult Day Services Association (www.nadsa.org).
Adult Day Centers are the most cost effective way to help seniors age in place and provide respite for their care partners. Call or visit one today!
The Parkinson Association is pleased to offer the following exercise and Inspired Expressions classes. A liability waiver from your doctor is required. There is a fee associated with each class.
Not all classes meet every week. For class schedules or to register, please call (303) 830-1839 or email [email protected].
Adult Day Center Site Visit Checklist• Did you feel welcome?
• Were the Center services and activities properly explained?
• Were you given information regarding staffing, programming, and costs?
• Is the facility clean, pleasant and free of odor?
• Is the building and site wheelchair accessible?
• Is the furniture sturdy and comfortable?
• Are there loungers and chairs with arms for relaxation if appropriate?
• Is there a quiet place in the Center?
• Did the staff and participants seem cheerful and comfortable?
• Are participants involved in planning activities?
DonationsYour thoughtfulness helps the Parkinson Association continue to provide services and support. The following gifts have been received between October 1, 2012 - January 31, 2013.
Hugh Allen Wesley & Karen Allen
Ralph Auerbach Julie Carr
Helen Axelson Tom & Ann Stark
Ralph R. Bacheldor Brian & Nancy AlexanderMrs. Jeanne BacheldorAnn & Bryan ButcherMs. Janet E. Stewart
Lawrence & Evelyn Barrick Gloria & Charles Barrick
Beverlee Bryan R.Bruce & Gayle Magee
Julian Buznedo Mr. Sol & Barbara LandowShauna & Kenneth LevinsonJoey Mosko & Shelly Jones
Donald L. Carleno Clyde & Theda ArcherDr. Colman & Martha Dell
G. Russell Case Mimi Naskadek & Family
Andy Chernushin Mary ArmstrongAlexei ChernushinTracey DehartJames & Amy HechtBurt LeMasterJayne MeyerJohn & Patricia SmedleyErven & Beatrice TallmanComfort Keepers
Maurice Chevalier Deborah Wagner
Robert Clifton Heather Clifton
Delois Davis Warren DavisWalter & Anneliese A.
ZimmermanWarren Discher
Mildred DischerClara Edmonds
Rendel EdmondsBob Eggers
Jim & Diane CummingsDarrell & Cora JensbyCharlie Upton
Sue Feingold Michael HesterLinda Weiss
Arnold Finke Bernard & Jellie Gauthier
Gordon Friednash Zelda Friednash
Jack Goodman Mr. & Mrs. Joe BilettRick & Shelia BugdanowitzZelda FriednashEsther LustigBarbara Olshansky & Steven ShecterHarriet Saper
Roger Goodwin Michael & Carolyn Crawford
Louise Greiff Mary Ann Amemiya
Don Harper Ron & Marilyn Kothenbeutel
Paul M. Hart Burgette Hart
Thomas Hart Diana AllensworthSamuel Betters & ChildrenRobert & Lucille FaistWilliam & Anita HartMatt & Hilde KraussMichael LemoiKim PardoeEugene & Barbara ReynoldsDorothy & David TaylorRobert & M. Jennifer ThomasAurora HousingBd, Mktg & Strategic Plg. - KiewitBoard of Aurora Housing Corp.Kiewit Energy Group IncLoveland Housing AuthorityTIC - The Industrial Company
Henry Kerschbaum Louisa A. MurphyTransform Software & Services, Inc.
Sharon C. Klassen Theodore & Mona LewisRandy & Sherri McElroy
Ken & Susan MeadDr. William Kohn
Bernard & Devera ThornLeo J. Lager
Eugene & Gertrude BurnsBarbara J. HerbaughThelma Kreeger
Arthur Gordon LaMunyon Lisa LaMunyon
Marvin Leff Joe Pells
Donna Licht Howard & Susan Licht
Eurada Lockett Loretta & Currie Lockett
Richard W. Loughry Betty J. AbernathyInger E. CurtisMarietta DinneenWilliam & LaJeanne GilmerDr. Stan & Mary HartmanTom & Laura HayesJudy HinkleLinda & Dave JohnsonDr. & Mrs. Richard G. McCleeryDave & Helen McCrackenJanet MortinsenJulie QuinlivanFrank ShirkRex & Joan StoutThomas & Carol ToftJ. Robert & Marguerite WilsonAlign Business ServicesMcGee, Hearne & Paiz, LLP
Louis Lucks Juanita & Joe Silberstein
Ted Migaki Mary ArakawaDr. & Mrs. Henry FongMr. & Mrs. Calvin HadaJun & Francis HamaiRichard HamaiEiji HoriuchiMrs. Hiroko HungIra & Sumi IwataMrs. Haru KotoMr. Paul KotoRandy, Faye, Sean & Karen KotoMr. Kent Kuroda & FamilyAndrew & Kathleen LowMary MasunagaGoro MinagaMr. Dennis MorimotoGene & Alyce MorimotoMrs. Miyako OtsukiMrs. Helen PrestonMrs. Margaret Preston
Dwight & Phyllis RiderElaine ShiramizuSteve & Kristen ShiramizuKimiko & Gene SidePamela SvareKatherine SwindellLaurie & Robert TeppertCathy & Keith TiptonBecky & Rex WoodJames & Molly ZiskJapanese American Assn. of COMile Hi JACL
Paul Morton Arthur M. & Marno S. Grisa
Mary Frances Moses Monte Moses & Kathryn S. Whitaker
Carleton F. Nadelhoffer, I Caroline Orman
Betty Jane Nolan Beth L Blank
Elaine Nowlen Shirley FritschFriends of Mark Nowlen
Roy Norman Peacock Alma Peacock
Milford Pepper Bernard & Devera Thorn
Helen Reierson Robert Reierson
Stuart Rothchild Lorraine Rothchild
Donald Schoenberger Daniel & Brenda Hansen
Walter P. Schultz Diana Hoppin
William Secor Mary Lou Secor
Barbara Siefert Dr. & Mrs. Jack Siefert
Carolyn Siefert Dr. & Mrs. Jack Siefert
Pearl Soderbloom Leroy E. Soderbloom
Dr. Clive Solomons Kenneth & Fran BerryLibby BortzJoseph & Maude CramerCarl & Barbara KaufmannHildie NewmanNancy NowakMarjorie L. PearsallTouching Hearts at Home
James H. Spencer Linda Spencer
Dodd Stone Janet VonDrehle
Mary Frances Thompson Ms. Elaine DeAngelo
Barbara Thorman William & Barbara MartinMary Lou NotariMarcia Johnson & Stephen Walden
Ed Turrou Phyllis Hall Turrou
Jim Waring Mats & Agneta AlbinssonJoann AndrewsFrank & Joan ArdourelMichaeleen BagleyJonathan & Allison ClaussenVirginia ClaussenBrian ConneryKevin & Melanie ConneryShirley ConneryJ. Vernon & June DavidsonJoseph & Joanne GelsthorpeDarwin & Beverly GuinnIra Hirschfield & Tom HansenValerie & Bob KluverMr. and Mrs. Alex & Anne KotchSusan & Jerry OliaroLinda PattridgeMs. Mabel E. PattridgeAmy Ramm-MerkelMs. Alice SmithJoanne Truitt
Marie Warner Mr. & Mrs. Gene AlexandeIrene & Lowell AndersMr. & Mrs. Herb BaconCatherine M. BrownRobert & Sandra CaskeyDonald & Elaine DeJulioEd & Karen DeJulioJerry & Bonnie FirpoGary & Wanda GirardThomas & Linda GirardLois R. HedgesDeborah KnottCharles & Patricia Mac ArthurTodd & Laura MickelsenBetty L. SparksRoger & Nancy SpringstedFriends & Co-workers of Rich WarnerBureau of ReclamationPtarmigan Pointe HOAWest Star Aviation, Inc.
Mary Waters Susan Lanzer
Carolyn Young Thomas Rothermich
Michael Zeleznak Henry & Mary Concha
MEMORIALS
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HONORSStephen Berkowitz
Frank & Dena SchneiderPhil & Juanita Cedillo
Lawrence CedilloAdele Cornelius
Katharine T. CorneliusCari Friedman
Betty KarshJay Gould
Margaret ConnerBrian Hall
Kirk & Linda HallDonald Hamburg
Arlene Aldrich
Dr. & Mrs. John A. Humphreys Kermit E. Hartley
Aaron King Daniel & Brenda Hansen
Olga Klepitskaya Rick & Shelia Bugdanowitz
Alex Kotch Stanley & Pam Bull
Les Levitt Joe Pells
Charles Lobitz Katie & Mike McGoldrick
Andra Mangulis Astra Mangulis
Betsy Mathies Jim & Barb Todd
Lee & Barb Mendel David & Helene Pollock
Dominic Meylor Elizabeth Meylor
Darrell & Donna Miller Betty Brown
Barbara Nelson Ms. Harriett Hulbert
Larry Osborn Larry Osborn & Elizabeth R. Ross
Robert Rector Jan Grohs
Rick Schwartz Ed & Ann BrinkWalter GrossKevin Paul & Melanie Lunsford
Martin & Gretchen WilsonMary Searson
Patty BattlesBarry Segal
Robert & Geraldine SegalRay Shelmire
Wendy O’RourkeLynn Taussig
Andrew & Ellen SeligPaul Vader
Paul & Mary Ann VaderDr. David VanSickle
Jodi RobinetteBetsy Vierck
Bonnie CarrollRian & Sara McCaslin
Mr. Bill Vollbracht Mr. Ronald S. LoserMr. Wes Segelke
Robert White Malcolm & Bonnie Greene
Jim Wilkinson Kathleen Wilkinson
Paul & Carolyn Zeiger Teresa & Christopher Reinhart
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Ask the ExpertsHow can people living with Parkinson’s Disease reduce the risk of falling?By Juli McKay, MS OTR/L, Life Care Centers of America
Research indicates that people with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) have a greater risk of falling than the average population. Persons with PD often have difficulty with posture, freezing, fine motor coordination and balance. These are all excellent reasons to seek out qualified physical and occupational therapists to help treat the symptoms.
However, adapting your home environment to increase safety can be an easy way to reduce your risk of falling. Consider completing common daily self-care tasks such as dressing and shaving while sitting down instead of standing in order to increase stability. It is also important to place objects within close proximity in order to reduce reaching. In the shower or tub, shower benches can be another easy way to increase safety. Consider installing non-skid strips into showers and tubs to decrease your risk of falling. Installing a raised toilet seat can increase the ability to safely stand. There are a number of models that simply fit over the existing commode and do not require any retrofitting or installation.
Lighting is also very important to reducing the risk for falls. Balance can be greatly impaired without proper lighting. Place night lights throughout the
home, especially the path from bedroom to bathroom and be sure to use adequate lighting within the home at all times.
In-home modifications can be an easy way to increase safety and decrease the risk of life-changing falls.
How does neuromuscular massage aid individuals with Parkinson’s?By Monica Shields & Jim Marr, Body Mechanics
That is a great question - Parkinson’s disease typically causes muscle stiffness and rigidity. Getting neuromuscular therapy aids in releasing the tension in the muscles by moving them gently while applying pressure to the effected areas. As long as the client has sensation in the area being worked, it is safe and beneficial.
Massage has been utilized by individuals with Parkinson’s for a long time, because it helps alleviate muscle and joint stiffness. In a 2002 study done at Duke University on patients that went to massage twice weekly for 5 weeks, the following advantages were noted:
1. Increased quality of sleep2. Better daily functioning3. Decreased stress hormone levels4. Temporary reduction in severity of tremors
Being in the massage industry and working on individuals with Parkinson’s, we have witnessed benefits and have been told by our clients that they definitely see improvement when they receive treatment. They also experience temporary relief in stiffness. Massage is not a cure for Parkinson’s but it most certainly makes a difference in the comfort and quality of your day.
Why is exercise important for me?By Maggie Ehrenfried, PT, DPT, Physiotherapy Associates
Research has shown that exercise plays a very important role in the lives of those diagnosed with Parkinson Disease (PD). This research suggests that exercise may actually modify the progression of PD by protecting brain cells (neurons), restoring connections between neurons, attenuating dopamine loss and increasing the brain’s usage of undamaged systems. Research also shows that a lack of exercise may increase dopamine loss in the brain of someone diagnosed with PD. What it comes down to is this: A lack of exercise may exacerbate the signs and symptoms of Parkinson Disease. Exercising, however, can increase brain health and function which improves your overall ability to function!
Update from the Parkinson Action NetworkBy Diane Cook, Colorado State Director
Did you know that Colorado received $303.8 million in funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in 2012 that supported over 6,000 jobs? Colorado also received federal funding from the Department of Defense and the Department of Veteran’s Affairs. Most of these grant funds supported research being conducted at the University of Colorado Denver and the University of Colorado Boulder.
If sequestration actually takes place, it will result in 5.1% funding cuts across the board. Biomedical research, which is expensive, is likely to see progress slowed. If cuts in medical research are sustained longer-term, there is concern that there will be a brain drain and that younger investigators will turn to other fields. We could also see delays in FDA approval of drugs.
Let’s look at the bigger picture. Up to 1.5 million Americans live with Parkinson’s disease today. That number is expected to double by 2040. A February 2013 study in Movement Disorders estimated that Parkinson’s costs our country at least $14.4 billion a
year. That number will rise exponentially over the next few decades. Another study estimated that slowing the progression of Parkinson’s by 50 percent would lower, by one-third, the incremental medical costs incurred by those 1.5 million Americans with Parkinson’s disease. “These studies highlight the enormous economic implications of this devastating disease, and make it abundantly clear that increased research funding is a wise investment on the front end to help significantly lower or eliminate costs on the back end,” said PAN CEO Amy Comstock.
There is an urgency to educate Congress on the importance of biomedical and neuroscience research and to keep the issue at the forefront of the Congressional agenda as we approach the March deadline for the 2012 and 2013 budget discussions. 260 grassroots network advocates from 40 states attended PAN’s Research and Public Policy Forum in Washington, DC in February and held more than 300 meetings with Members of Congress and their staff to discuss the importance of preserving funding for NIH, the FDA and Department of Defense Parkinson’s Research.
The NIH is the world’s largest funder of biomedical research. This basic science research is complex and
costly and is conducted primarily by universities and research centers. Biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies count on this academic research to provide targets for drug development.
Millions of Americans with Parkinson’s and other diseases rely on the FDA to quickly approve new drugs and devices that will improve their day-to-day quality of life. FDA approval of a new drug takes up to 2 years. A streamlined process and better FDA access to scientific and medical experts is needed to ensure that patients get critical drugs sooner.
There are 80,000 veterans with Parkinson’s. The Department of Defense Parkinson’s Research Program helps to protect soldiers from toxic substances, head injuries and other possible contributors to Parkinson’s.
Advocacy is important in moving the government to action and public policy can be influenced by making your voice heard. Become a PAN E-Advocate and respond to PAN’s Action Alerts by emailing or calling your congressional delegation to weigh in on important issues. For more information on becoming an E-Advocate, call (800) 850-4726 or visit www.parkinsonsaction.org.
1325 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite 204B Denver, CO 80222(303) 830-1839
MissionCommitted to enhancing lives and connecting communities.
The Parkinson Association of the Rockies enhances the quality of life for individuals with Parkinson’s disease through education, research, awareness and support for those with the disease, their families and the community.
WALK THE WALK THAT CONNECTS COMMUNITIES AND ENHANCES LIVES. WALK THE VITALITY WALK.Sunday, June 2nd, 2013 • Wash Park, Denver • Sandstone Ranch, Longmont8:00am Registration Begins • 9:00am Walk Start • 10:00am Resource Fair (Denver only)Registration $30/adult • $10/child (ages 5-14) • FREE/child (ages 0-4)For more information and to register visit www.ParkinsonRockies.org
TWO SITES, 2,000 STEPS AND ONE UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE!On Sunday, June 2nd the Parkinson Association of the Rockies will host the 11th annual Vitality Walk! Last year we expanded the walk to include two sites, and this year we continue that tradition: Wash Park in Denver and Sandstone Ranch in Longmont.
WALK THE WALK AND MAKE EVERY STEP COUNTEvery step taken by someone with Parkinson’s shows their determination to live well with this disease. Every step taken by friends, families, neighbors and co-workers supports those individuals and families who are affected by Parkinson’s disease. Walk the Vitality Walk to enhance lives with every step. Aim high to help us reach our goals of 1,200 walkers and $100,000 to benefit programs and services of the Parkinson Association! We encourage you to join others in the challenge to create the largest team, raise the most funds, show-off your creativity and team spirit! All ages and dogs are welcome.
This year, we also invite you to Choose to Snooze and Make it Count! Not a morning person? Will you be out of town? Have to work? For those of you who prefer to snooze rather than lace up your walking shoes, register as a Choose to Snooze participant.
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE For more information please contact: [email protected] • (303) 830-1839
