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Check-in and resource tables start at 9:00 a.m. Breakfast will be provided.
After many years of good symptom management, Parkinson’s disease may become more challenging. Learn how Parkinson’s symptoms may change over time and new strategies available for managing them.
Expert Speaker:
John Wedlake, MD
Neurologist
Stillwater Neurology
This program is open to people with Parkinson's, their family, friends, and the community. There is no charge to attend, but registration is required.
Attend in-person
Parking: Parking is complimentary for attendees of the program.
COVID SAFETY: The health and safety of our participants, sponsors, volunteers and staff are our top priority. We continue to monitor CDC recommendations and will adhere to state and local COVID guidelines in place on the event day. Adjustments will be made if necessary.
The Parkinson’s Foundation South Central Chapter is grateful for the unwavering support of our Chapter Partners and Sponsors. Learn more about them by visiting our Chapter Supporter webpage.
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In-person check-in starts at 12 p.m.
Exercise is an essential part of overall Parkinson’s management. In addition to helping with movement symptoms, exercise can have a positive impact on non-motor symptoms in Parkinson’s. This program focuses on how exercise supports brain health and can lead to improved emotional and cognitive well-being.
Lunch will be served.
Speakers
Dr. Ann Murray, MD
West Virginia University
Emily J. Taylor, PTA, BS, MS
Mid-Ohio Valley Parkinson’s Support Group, Leader
ROCK STEADY BOXING, Head Coach
Matthew Burton, MD
Marshall Health
There is no charge to attend, but registration is required. This program is open to people with Parkinson's, their families, friends, and the community.
COVID SAFETY: The health and safety of our participants, sponsors, volunteers and staff are our top priority. We continue to monitor CDC recommendations and will adhere to state and local COVID guidelines in place on the event day. Adjustments will be made if necessary.
How to Communicate Your 5 Parkinson’s Care Needs During a Hospital Visit
People with Parkinson’s disease (PD) are at a higher risk of hospitalization and face many challenges while in the hospital.
Hospital staff may not be familiar enough with PD to understand symptoms or realize they can worsen if you do not receive Parkinson’s medications on time. Careful preparation and clear communication can help minimize complications and recovery time.
People with Parkinson’s and their care partner can use the Five Parkinson’s Care Needs from our Hospital Safety Guide, listed below, to communicate PD needs during a hospital visit, whether planned or unplanned.
1. I need my hospital chart to include my exact medications and match my at-home schedule.
Why it’s important: Hospitals often follow standardized medication schedules to ensure timely administration for most patients, but this doesn’t prioritize the complex medication routines that people with Parkinson’s follow.
What to look out for: Make sure the hospital records your exact medication times rather than the number of times per day you take them. Otherwise, the hospital will
follow their schedule instead of yours.
What to ask for: Ask to verbally review your hospital medication list and schedule with the hospital care team, confirming that they ordered medications according to the correct specific times. You can also request a printout to review and compare to your Medication Form.
2. I need to take my Parkinson’s medications within 15 minutes of my usual schedule.
Why it’s important: Delayed or missed doses can lead to falls, difficulty participating in rehabilitation and being less prepared to go home after leaving the hospital.
What to look out for: Many hospitals allow nurses to give medications up to an hour before or after the scheduled time.
What to ask for: Remind nurses when it is almost time for your medications. Ask nurses to help you take your medications according to your home schedule.Describe your symptoms and how they are affected when you do not receive medication on time, every time.
3. I need to avoid medications that make my Parkinson’s worse. These medications include those that block dopamine, sedatives and certain pain medications.
Why it’s important: Lack of dopamine in the brain is the primary cause of Parkinson’s movement symptoms. When dopamine-blocking medications are given to someone with Parkinson’s, they can worsen the symptoms they are given to treat and cause harmful side effects.
What to look out for: Your care team may prescribe new medications to treat nausea, confusion and psychosis (hallucinations and delusions) without realizing they can worsen Parkinson’s symptoms.
What to ask for: Sharethe list of harmful medications on the Parkinson’s Care Summary and ask for a safe alternative.
4. I need to move my body as safely and regularly as possible, ideally three times a day.
Why it’s important: For people with PD, regular movement — often coupled with physical and occupational therapy — is important for controlling PD symptoms, preventing falls and minimizing complications.
What to look out for: In the hospital, your care team may limit your movement to keep you safe, especially if you are weak after surgery, have low blood pressure or have other issues that put you at risk of falling.
What to ask for: Ask for rehabilitation therapy (physical and occupational therapy) if you need help moving safely. If it is safe, continue daily activities, such as dressing, walking to the bathroom, sitting in a chair for meals and taking short walks
5. I need to be screened for swallowing changes to safely maintain my medication routine and minimize my risk of aspiration pneumonia and weight loss.
Why it’s important: Difficulty swallowing, called dysphagia, is common for people with Parkinson’s. Minor swallowing issues can worsen and create severe complications during a hospital stay.
What to look out for: Staff may order “NPO” (nothing by mouth) with the goal of preventing severe swallowing-related complications, stopping Parkinson’s medications, along with all other food, liquid, and medications. This can make swallowing issues worse!
What to ask for: Instead of stopping Parkinson’s medications, you want to avoid medication pauses. Ask the nurse about ways to continue Parkinson’s medications safely.
In addition to providing useful information and tools to help you advocate for your best care, and explain the Five Parkinson’s Care Needs to hospital staff, the Hospital Safety Guide provides:
Forms for you to fill out with personal care details and medication schedules.
Tips for care partners.
Parkinson’s care information to share with the hospital care team.
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Navigating Parkinson’s disease involves looking ahead, learning and adjusting as symptoms and needs change. This program addresses some of the challenges of advancing PD and explores strategies to prepare for the future, including how to evolve your care plans and treatments throughout progression so you can live your best life with PD now.
This program is open to people with Parkinson's, their family, friends and the community. There is no charge to attend, but registration is required as in-person seating is limited.
Speaker: Antonia Pusso, MD, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical
COVID SAFETY: The health and safety of our participants, sponsors, volunteers and staff are our top priority. We continue to monitor CDC recommendations and will adhere to state and local COVID guidelines in place on the event day. Adjustments will be made if necessary.
Join the Parkinson’s Foundation in person or online for the Mid-Atlantic Chapter Parkinson’s Symposium. Hear about ongoing research, current treatments, and resources available to help you live your best life with Parkinson’s.
Speakers
Dr. Fernando Pagan
Medical Director, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital
Dr. Yasar Torres-Yaghi
MedStar Georgetown University Hospital
For in-person attendees: In-person check-in start at 12 p.m. ET.
For virtual attendees, via Zoom: The live stream starts at 12:30 p.m. ET
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.
COVID SAFETY: The health and safety of our participants, sponsors, volunteers and staff are our top priority. We continue to monitor CDC recommendations and will adhere to state and local COVID guidelines in place on the event day. Adjustments will be made if necessary.
In-person check-in, Lunch and Vendor Visits start at 12 p.m.; Program starts at 1 p.m.
Join the Parkinson’s Foundation, in-person or online, for the Midwest Chapter Parkinson’s Symposium. Hear about ongoing research, current treatments, and resources available as they relate to Cognition, Mood, and Speech.
COVID SAFETY: The health and safety of our participants, sponsors, volunteers and staff are our top priority. We continue to monitor CDC recommendations and will adhere to state and local COVID guidelines in place on the event day. Adjustments will be made if necessary.
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Hosted by the Parkinson’s Foundation Georgia Chapter & the Athens Community Council on Aging
There are many non-motor challenges associated with Parkinson's disease that may not always be easy to discuss. With a focus on pain, this program will provide strategies for coping and talking about it with healthcare providers or loved ones.
There is no charge to attend, but registration is required since lunch will be served. This program is open to people with Parkinson's, their family, friends and the community.
Featured Speaker
Steve Crider Jr., MD
Origins Spine and Joint Physicians
COVID SAFETY: The health and safety of our participants, sponsors, volunteers and staff are our top priority. We continue to monitor CDC recommendations and will adhere to state and local COVID guidelines in place on the event day. Adjustments will be made if necessary.
The Parkinson's Foundation is an official charity partner for the 2026 runDisney Springtime Surprise 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. Register to run now at PDChampionsDisneySurprise.org
Fundraising Commitments:
Challenge (5k, 10k, & 10m) - $2,250
10m - $1,000
5k/10k - $750
*Do you have your own bib? Do you have a runner under age 18 to register? Please email us at Run4PD@Parkinson.org for special registration instructions.
runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend promises to be an epic experience! Come lace up and become the hero of your own story as you conquer magical miles throughout Walt Disney World® Resort, April 3–6. Choose from an adventurous 5K, 10K or 10-Miler, or participate in a Challenge that combines all three races for a total of 19.3 miles. But no matter which you choose, you’ll be immersed in everything from meet-and-greets with rarely seen Characters to inspiring movie clips and more. There’s even a morning yoga session to kick off the weekend stretch and prepare you for the journey. Best of all? Upon completing your quest, you’ll earn a one-of-a-kind themed medal for each race you run. Complete all three races and take home a fourth Challenge medal!
Looking for travel support? Sign up for a free consultation with our wonderful friends at Magical Park Vacations at THIS LINK (whether you end up running with us or not). They have deep knowledge of the parks and traveling with a family member who has Parkinson’s disease.
NOTE: Registration for this race includes access to the Walt Disney World Resort® amusement parks for the race event only. To “ride-the-rides” you would need to purchase a separate ticket to the parks. There may be the opportunity for friends and family to come cheer you on without needing to purchase entry to the park, but this will be announced later by the runDisney organization at their discretion.
The Parkinson's Foundation is an official charity partner for the 2026 Los Angeles 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 fundraising support and team benefits. Click here to register.
The Los Angeles marathon course takes you from Stadium to the Stars, showcasing the vibrant neighborhoods and famous landmarks of this dynamic city. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or a first-time participant, the Los Angeles Marathon offers an unforgettable experience for runners of all levels.
The Charity Half Marathon is a half marathon within the Los Angeles Marathon where everyone participating is giving back and running for charity! This unique event has the intimate feel of a close-knit nonprofit community while enjoying the high energy and support of one of the largest marathons in the country.
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.
Start 2024 Strong with These Parkinson’s-Focused New Year’s Resolutions
Start 2024 off strong! Living with or caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s disease (PD) can change the way you look at new year’s resolutions, which is why we put together this list of goals that can help benefit different aspects of life.
For the Person Newly Diagnosed Person with Parkinson’s
Find the resources that work for you. Access the resources that align with your learning style — from our PD Library, to our podcast to familiarizing yourself with Parkinson.org.
Establish an exercise routine. Exercise (such as yoga, walking or swimming) can help improve flexibility and mobility and reduce muscle and joint pain. Find the workout that works for you through our virtual Fitness Friday exercise classes.
Start building your PD community. On the social front, start exploring support groups, online groups or forums and find your Parkinson’s Foundation chapter. It takes time to build your PD support system, why not start this year?
Build your care team. A movement disorders specialist or neurologist is key to helping manage symptoms from the beginning. Start building your care team and ask for referrals for specialists who can help along the way — from a physical therapist to nutritionist.
For the Person Living with Parkinson’s
Find your community. There is no break from Parkinson’s. Finding the right support group or exercise class can fight isolation. Contact our Helpline at 1-800-473-4636 or Helpline@Parkinson.org to find an exercise class or support group near you.
Write your PD Story. Not only can writing help boost your brain and memory, but your story can also inspire others. Explore My PD Stories, and when you’re ready, submit yours.
Prioritize self-care. With a myriad of symptoms that can impact mental health, try something new to help serve your mental health. Try a new type of complementary therapy (like a massage), start journaling or visit a new park.
Become a Parkinson’s Ambassador. Ready to help spread Parkinson’s awareness? Explore the many ways you can volunteer and find the opportunity that works best for you.
For the Care Partner
Schedule time for yourself. Regular breaks from caregiving are essential to balance. Take an hour daily, an afternoon weekly or a day monthly — whatever you can manage. Explore more ideas in Caring for the Care Partner.
Plan for the future. While not an easy resolution, aim to get your plans in order and start bringing up the more complicated conversations. Our Planning Ahead article breaks down planning into sections.
Try a new care partner resource. From care partner support groups to a PD exercise class, you can do with your spouse, find a new resource to take advantage of this year.
Ask for help. Make this the year you don’t take everything on yourself. Schedule time for loved ones or friends to come over and leave the house for a few hours for yourself.
Plan a date with your loved one. Find a day this year to help your loved one with PD. From taking them to a movie or bringing a meal over to give the care partner a few hours off, spending time together can help in more ways than one. Learn more about Caring From Afar.
Volunteer. Help make life better for people with Parkinson’s. Tell us your skills and interests in our volunteer interest form and we’ll reach out!
More ways to give. From helping us advance critical research to funding life-changing wellness programs in local communities, there are many ways to give to the Parkinson’s Foundation.
Overwhelmed? Not sure what Parkinson’s resources can help you? Call our Helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) for referrals and help finding local wellness and exercise classes
