DECMEBER, 2021
Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorder Center Monthly News and Updates
DECEMBER 1
Expert Briefing: The Skinny on Skin and Bone Health in Parkinson's
As Parkinson’s disease (PD) progresses, it is common to experience changes in skin and bone health. Weakened skeletal and bone health can increase risk of falls and balance issues. Changes in the skin or trouble with excessive sweating are also common symptoms of PD. Recent studies have shown an increased prevalence of skin cancer among people with PD. Learn about these changes and how to address them.
DECEMBER 6
Sex and Gender: What does it mean in the Parkinson's Brain?
Join PMD Alliance for a discussion with three thought leaders from around the world in the field of Parkinson's and the brain. Elena Moro, MD, PhD is a neurologist & Chair of the Department of Psychiatry, Neurology, Neurological Rehabilitation and Forensic Medicine at Grenoble Alpes University in France. Maria Teresa Ferretti, PhD is a neuroscientist and Chief Scientific Officer of the Women’s Brain Project (WBP) in Switzerland. This discussion will be hosted by neurologist Indu Subramanian, MD.
In case you missed it...

Northwestern's PDMDC program coordinator was featured in PMD Alliance's The Stories that Connect Us series. Hear how Erin found her way to social work, her passion for the neurology population, and the inner strength and resiliency of those with Parkinson's and related movement disorders.



Class Highlight:
Improv for PD


Next Session:12/9/21 to 1/27/22
Date/Time: Thursdays, 2:00-3:30 PM (CT)
Location: Zoom
Cost: $80 for all 8 sessions

Join us for our improvisational group for persons with Parkinson’s and their care partners. You don’t have to be a professional performer or comedian to learn improv games and have fun! 

In this class, you will learn improvisational theatre exercises that benefit emotional, physical, and spiritual wellbeing. We hope that participants find their stress levels decreased and their laugh life increased! 

Space for the group is limited. RVSP Required.
Please contact Erin at erin.cecchi@nm.org, if you are interested in joining. 
Video Chat
Virtual Support Groups and Classes Schedule

We use Zoom for all our support groups and classes!

Register for any of the groups and classes here!
1st Wednesday of the month
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

2nd Wednesday of the month 
11:00 am – 12:00 pm

2nd Wednesday of the month 
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

4th Wednesday of the month
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm

PD 101 
Next class February 2022
4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Therapy Tuesdays Exercise Class
1st Tuesday of the month
11:00 am – 12:00 pm

2nd, 3rd, 4th (and 5th) Tuesday of the month
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Music Therapy
4th Tuesday of the month
2:30 pm – 3:30 pm

3rd Monday of the month
10:00 am – 11:00 am

Next Session: 12/9 to 1/27
Thursdays 2:00 pm – 3:30pm
For a complete list of our groups and classes, including those offered at Central DuPage and Lake Forest Hospitals, click HERE!


Climbing for PD Kick-off Event


Date: Saturday, December 11, 2021
Time: 4:00-6:30 PM (CT)
Where: First Ascent Climbing Avondale
3516 N Spaulding Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
What: Rope climbing with certified instructors
Cost: Free for people with Parkinson's

Join others with PD and learn to rope climb!

Instructors will be onsite, so all level of climbers are welcome to attend!

Space is limited and registration is required!
Resource Highlight: Exercise

Most people are aware that exercise is important for improving strength and cardiovascular health, but it may also have unique properties that make exercise essential to the management of Parkinson’s disease (PD). 

We have compiled a list of Chicagoland in-person and virtual exercise options to help you stay fit and have fun.

Social Engagement: Sing Out Loud with Parkinson's
Studies show that singing can help maintain strength in the muscles involved in speech and voice in people with Parkinson’s disease. Join us for a fun way to exercise your voice, speech and swallowing muscles - through SINGING! This session will celebrate the season with some wintry melodies!
Date: Wednesday, December 8
Time: 12 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. CT
Where: Zoom
Cost: FREE

Click HERE to view the PD Health @ Home schedule for for the month of December.


As a reminder, the Foundation has a variety of resources available to support you and the PD community, including: 
 
HELPLINE: 1-800-4PD-INFO (473-4636) or helpline@parkinson.org
PD Conversations an online PD community, to connect with others living with PD and be part of a network of support. 
IDEAS FOR MENTAL HEALTH
This program, directed by Dr. Jennifer G. Goldman and supported by a Parkinson’s Foundation 2021Community Grant, will focus on ways for you to increase your knowledge about mental health topics in Parkinson’s disease (PD) and to develop proactive strategies to enhance your mental well-being

Join the group on December 4th, where there will be a presentation about Nutrition.


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