Videos & Webinars

Expert Briefing: Communication Strategies for Optimal Success with PD

September 17, 2019

Conversation is the primary mechanism by which humans create and maintain relationships. Yet, in the context of Parkinson’s disease (and typical aging) changes in speech, facial expressions, cognition, voice, and hearing can interfere with communicating messages and creating meaningful connections in conversations between individuals with Parkinson’s disease and their partners. These changes significantly impact the perceived burden (social, emotional, physical) and practical aspects of living with Parkinson’s disease. Dr. Roberts will focus on the multidimensional nature of conversation difficulties in the context of living with Parkinson’s disease and will discuss communication strategies for optimizing successful conversation interactions.

Presenter

Angela Roberts, PhD
Roxelyn and Richard Pepper Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
Northwestern University (Parkinson’s Foundation Center of Excellence)

Fundraising Events

Moving Day Nashville Rewards Party

11:30 am to 1:30 pm CDT
FREE
Nashville Rewards Party

The Parkinson's Foundation is excited to invite participants to a special celebration of Moving Day’s success! Those who earned fundraising prizes will have the opportunity to pick them up on October 19, from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM, at Hillsboro Church of Christ. Guests can enjoy Martin’s Barbecue while celebrating the collective achievements of the community.

Please note that all donations must be submitted by October 18 to qualify for fundraising rewards.

Upcoming Events

Fundraising Events

2025 Utica Boilermaker Race Weekend

Parkinson’s Champions athletes raise funds and awareness for the Parkinson’s Foundation while competing in some of the world’s most popular races. Every step we take brings us closer to a future without Parkinson’s disease, because Parkinson’s isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon.

Utica, NY
Educational Events

Pints for Parkinson's

5:00 pm to 7:00 pm EST
FREE
pints, flyer for event

Join us for a very special Pints for Parkinson's event in Charlotte, NC, to learn more about Parkinson’s Foundation research initiatives, no-cost resources and for the opportunity to engage with others in your local Parkinson's community!
 
Enjoy complimentary food and drinks, with a cash bar on-site for those who would like to grab a pint.

Upcoming Events

Fundraising Events

2025 Utica Boilermaker Race Weekend

Parkinson’s Champions athletes raise funds and awareness for the Parkinson’s Foundation while competing in some of the world’s most popular races. Every step we take brings us closer to a future without Parkinson’s disease, because Parkinson’s isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon.

Utica, NY
Educational Events

Live Fitness Fridays: Body Mapping for Parkinson's

Virtual ( Zoom )
1:00 pm to 1:45 pm EST
Free
A man lifting two weights in a T motion

In this class, you’ll learn how to incorporate body mapping techniques into your regular exercise routine, whether it’s boxing, large amplitude movements, strength training, or balance exercises. Body mapping helps coordinate the entire body—upper and lower, left and right—while using eye movements to enhance control, fluidity, and rotation. We’ll revisit core body mapping techniques to support full-body integration during exercises. For example, you’ll discover how to improve upper and lower body coordination for better rotation in boxing movements. The class will be paced from moderate to higher intensity, with seated variations available to meet all ability levels.

What You Need:

• Chair

• Exercise mat

• Hand towel

• Second chair, walker, foam roller, or wall for support during transitions

• Small hand weights (1-3 lbs) or weighted objects like soup cans or water bottles

Join the live Q&A at the end of class to discuss your experience and explore adjustments to better suit your needs.

Instructor

Corey Emberton - Neuro and Movement Specialist & Level 3 Neurostudio Advanced Practitioner

There is no charge to attend, but registration is required. This program is open to people with Parkinson's, their family, friends, and the community.

This is a virtual program, taking place live, using the online Zoom platform. Instructions on joining the webinar are provided after registering.

Upcoming Events

Fundraising Events

2025 Utica Boilermaker Race Weekend

Parkinson’s Champions athletes raise funds and awareness for the Parkinson’s Foundation while competing in some of the world’s most popular races. Every step we take brings us closer to a future without Parkinson’s disease, because Parkinson’s isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon.

Utica, NY
Educational Events

Georgia Chapter Volunteer Open House and Orientation (Spring)

Virtual ( Zoom )
12:30 pm to 1:30 pm EST
FREE
Woman on a call waving to her laptop

Join us for the Georgia Chapter Volunteer Open House and Orientation designed for new volunteers and those interested in learning more about how to get involved with the Foundation in the Georgia Chapter!

You will have the opportunity to meet your chapter staff and fellow volunteers at this meeting. We will also share the steps to becoming a Parkinson's Foundation Ambassador and what you can do to help make a difference in the lives of people with Parkinson's once you have completed your training. Finally you will hear about upcoming events in the chapter and get connected. 

Speakers

Sadie McCoy
Manager, Volunteer Engagement

Annie Long
Senior Director Community Education & Outreach
Southeast Region

Event Schedule

Welcome and Housekeeping

  5 minutes

Introductions

  20 minutes

Presentation

  35 minutes

Educational Events

Georgia Chapter Volunteer Open House and Orientation (Fall)

Virtual ( Zoom )
12:30 pm to 1:30 pm EST
FREE
Woman on a call waving to her laptop

Join us for the Georgia Chapter Volunteer Open House and Orientation designed for new volunteers and those interested in learning more about how to get involved with the Foundation in the Georgia Chapter!

You will have the opportunity to meet your chapter staff and fellow volunteers at this meeting. We will also share the steps to becoming a Parkinson's Foundation Ambassador and what you can do to help make a difference in the lives of people with Parkinson's once you have completed your training. Finally you will hear about upcoming events in the chapter and get connected. 

Speakers

Sadie McCoy
Manager, Volunteer Engagement

Annie Long
Senior Director Community Education & Outreach
Southeast Region

Event Schedule

Welcome and Housekeeping

    5 minutes

Introductions

  20 minutes

Presentation

  35 minutes

Upcoming Events

Fundraising Events

2025 Utica Boilermaker Race Weekend

Parkinson’s Champions athletes raise funds and awareness for the Parkinson’s Foundation while competing in some of the world’s most popular races. Every step we take brings us closer to a future without Parkinson’s disease, because Parkinson’s isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon.

Utica, NY
Educational Events

Fitness Counts

11:00 am to 2:30 pm EST
Free
Fitness Counts Banner

Studies have demonstrated that exercise has brain and body benefits for people with Parkinson’s disease. Exercise can help to improve Parkinson’s symptoms and help individuals do the activities they enjoy. Learn that there are benefits to movement at all stages of Parkinson’s and that it is never too late to start.

Speakers

Karyssa Silva OTR/L, CLT
Director of Rehabilitation
Aldersbridge Physical Therapy and Wellness Center

Timothy VanHorn, PT
Aldersbridge Physical Therapy and Wellness Center

Kenneth Vinacco, PT, DPT
Rhode Island Hospital

Suja Sadasivan, MD
Director of Movement Disorders
St. Elizabeth's Medical Center/Boston Medical Center Health System

There is no charge to attend, but registration is required. This program is open to people with Parkinson's, their family, friends and the community.

Gold Sponsor

Upcoming Events

Fundraising Events

2025 Utica Boilermaker Race Weekend

Parkinson’s Champions athletes raise funds and awareness for the Parkinson’s Foundation while competing in some of the world’s most popular races. Every step we take brings us closer to a future without Parkinson’s disease, because Parkinson’s isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon.

Utica, NY
Fact Sheets

Veterans and Parkinson’s

More than 110,000 veterans with Parkinson’s disease (PD) receive care through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The Parkinson’s Foundation is here to help veterans and their loved ones live well with PD. To find resources tailored to the veteran community, visit Parkinson.org/Veterans or call the Parkinson’s Foundation Helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636).

Medical Care and Treatment

Many U.S. military veterans with Parkinson’s have access to specialized medical care and financial assistance through the VA. The VA treats veterans with Parkinson’s through medical centers known as Parkinson’s Disease Research, Education & Clinical Centers (PADRECCs). Visit www.parkinsons.va.gov or call 1-800-949-1001 x205769 to learn more about how to access care through the PADRECCs and their Associated Sites. To apply for VA healthcare, visit www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply or call 1-877-222-8387.

Agent Orange and Toxic Exposures

In some cases, a Parkinson’s diagnosis can be linked to Agent Orange or other toxin exposure from a veteran’s military service. Agent Orange was a powerful herbicide used in Vietnam from 1962 to 1975, but was also used and stored in other locations. Veterans may be eligible for a free environmental health registry evaluation, disability compensation and other VA benefits. To learn more, visit Parkinson.org/Veterans or call the Veteran Benefits Administration at 1-800-827-1000.

Veterans Benefits

Veterans living with Parkinson’s may qualify for financial benefit programs to help cope with financial challenges. Service members, veterans and families can apply for various VA benefits by:

  • Applying online at www.eBenefits.va.gov.
  • Working with an accredited representative or VSO. Federal law prohibits attorneys and others from charging a fee to assist with the VA application.
  • Calling the VA’s toll-free hotline at 1-800-827-1000, Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET.

Caring for a Veteran with Parkinson’s

The care partner experience is unique to every individual. The Parkinson’s Foundation and VA have resources specially designed for those caring for a veteran with Parkinson’s. Regardless of whether you are early in the journey, caring from afar or supporting a loved one in the advanced stages of Parkinson’s, we have the resources to help. Learn more at Parkinson.org/Veterans.

Hospital Safety

Every person living with Parkinson’s should be prepared for a possible hospitalization including veterans and their care partners. Visit Parkinson.org/HospitalSafety to learn more and order or download your Hospital Safety Guide.

Mental Health

Mental health concerns like depression and anxiety are common in people with PD. They can be the result of living with a chronic condition, but they can also be a symptom of the disease itself and changes in the brain. Be aware of these symptoms and do not hesitate to talk to your doctor. Keep the Veterans Crisis Line number nearby, just in case: dial 988, then press 1 or text 838255.

Fundraising Events

2026 Big Sur International Marathon Weekend

6:45 am to 1:00 pm PDT
A family smiling at the camera after a Champion's event by the ocean.

The Parkinson's Foundation is an official charity partner for the 2025 Big Sur International Marathon Weekend. By signing up to run as a Parkinson's Champion you commit to raising funds and awareness for the Parkinson's Foundation, and in return you get access to a free entry (bib) to the race in addition to tons of other fun benefits and perks. You can learn more about our program and join our interest list at Run4PD.org

Fundraising Commitments:
•    VIP - $5,000
•    Marathon or 11m - $1,000
•    Honorary Champion - $500

The Big Sur International Marathon is a destination race like no other. Whether you are running 26.2 or the 11 miler up the California coast you will see what makes this tiny community so unique. Towering redwoods, crashing waves, coastal mountains and verdant pastures are featured on this bucket list course. 

Are you looking for a fun way to volunteer for the Parkinson's Foundation & raise your voice while raising awareness? Come out and cheer on our incredible athletes! Learn more and apply at Parkinson.org/ChampionsCheer.

If you have questions, send us an email at Run4PD@Parkinson.org. For more information about the race itself, visit the Big Sur Marathon Homepage.
 

Upcoming Events

Fundraising Events

2025 Utica Boilermaker Race Weekend

Parkinson’s Champions athletes raise funds and awareness for the Parkinson’s Foundation while competing in some of the world’s most popular races. Every step we take brings us closer to a future without Parkinson’s disease, because Parkinson’s isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon.

Utica, NY
Fundraising Events

Community Walk Rockford

10:00 am to 1:00 pm CDT
Free
Group of people going through the finish line at a Moving Day Walk

Get out and move with your community! Every dollar raised supports the Parkinson’s Foundation mission to make life better for people affected by Parkinson’s disease (PD). At Moving Day Community Walks across the country, we’re fighting Parkinson’s and celebrating movement — proven to help manage Parkinson’s symptoms — and we’re doing it together. The Moving Day Community Walk Program is a complement to the Parkinson’s Foundation Moving Day, A Walk for Parkinson’s. These walks are family-friendly and help the Foundation make life better for people with PD.

The Community Walk program offers volunteers an opportunity to organize a walk in their own community that does not have a Moving Day event. The program leverages the personal experiences and community leadership of passionate volunteers to promote Parkinson’s awareness and raise funds for the Parkinson’s Foundation.

Learn more about bringing an event to your area

Upcoming Events

Fundraising Events

2025 Utica Boilermaker Race Weekend

Parkinson’s Champions athletes raise funds and awareness for the Parkinson’s Foundation while competing in some of the world’s most popular races. Every step we take brings us closer to a future without Parkinson’s disease, because Parkinson’s isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon.

Utica, NY
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