Prince William Area Agency on Aging Hosts Parkinson's Support Event

The Prince William Area Agency on Aging, or AAA, will host “All In for Parkinson’s,” an event for people affected by Parkinson’s disease. The AAA is partnering with the Parkinson & Movement Disorder Alliance, or PMD Alliance, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 6, at the McCoart Government Center at 1 County Complex Court in Woodbridge. The event is free, but registration is required at http://bit.ly/ALLINWoodbridge, as lunch will be served.

Caregivers who participate in the event will connect with others who are also caring for those with Parkinson's disease. They will also learn about various treatment options and resources to manage the disease. The attendees will be able to listen to panel discussions, attend breakout sessions, and hear speakers talk about a wide range of subjects related to Parkinson's disease.

Meeting other caregivers can provide people with a sense of relief in knowing they are not alone.

“When you walk into a place and people understand where you’re coming from, that’s golden,” said PMD Alliance Director of Community Learning Eden Feldman. “You feel understood. The thing about Parkinson’s disease is that people will say, ‘Don’t ask me how I’m doing today. Ask me how I’m doing right now.’ When you’re with those people who understand, it’s the best thing in the world.”

Experts speaking at the event will talk about how increased physical activity can help caregivers, as well as how to connect with resources and gain insights into treatment options. Panel discussions will help people learn that it is OK to ask for help. People stand ready to help with chores, running errands or simply sitting with someone with Parkinson’s disease to give the caregiver a break and reduce burnout.

Experts attending the event include Drew Hatter with the Michael J. Fox Foundation, Ana Grill, founder of Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease, and authors Karl and Angela Robb.

“This is a big event. We really have a good lineup. I’m excited,” Feldman said.

There will also be information at the event presented in Spanish.

Parkinson's disease is a neurological disorder that affects the central nervous system, causing a progressive deterioration of movement abilities. It is characterized by tremors that worsen over time. The National Institutes of Health have identified Parkinson's disease as the fastest-growing neurological disease in the world. While there is currently no cure available, various treatment options and resources are available to help improve the wellbeing of those living with Parkinson's disease.