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Sunday, March 21, 2010

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Resources for people with Parkinson’s disease, their families, and caregivers

At least 1.5 million Americans have Parkinson’s disease—a neurological disorder that is caused when certain nerve cells, or neurons, die or become impaired—and approximately 60,000 new cases are diagnosed each year in the United States. There are about 30,000 people living with Parkinson's disease in the metropolitan Washington area.

The illness affects men and women in almost equal numbers and knows no social, ethnic, economic or geographic boundaries. A diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease often leads to anxiety, anger, and depression. In addition to the physical and emotional strain of the illness, it also takes a financial toll on patients, their families, and caregivers. But seeking treatment and taking advantage of the available resources and support groups make coping with the disease easier.

The Parkinson Foundation of the National Capital Area provides services and support that improve the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s disease, their families, and caregivers through education and outreach. The organization maintains a network of more than 50 support groups throughout the metropolitan area and holds weekly therapeutic exercise programs in Arlington, Va.; Fairfax, Va.; and Bethesda, Md.

Studies have shown that exercise can be helpful for patients with Parkinson’s disease. While regular exercise will not stop the disease’s progression it can help ease symptoms; benefits such as improved overall body strength can lead to increased mobility, better balance, and superior emotional well-being.

The organization offers financial assistance to buy medical equipment or medication or provide access to a Parkinson’s disease treatment specialist. It also runs a hotline for information about the disease and provides resource packets about area services, support groups, meetings, and upcoming events.

For more information, contact:
Parkinson Foundation of the National Capital Area
8300 Greensboro Drive
Suite 800
McLean, VA 22102
(703) 287-8729
pfnca@parkinsonfoundation.org
parkinsonfoundation.org