Parkinson’s support group announces coming programs

CAMDEN – The Parkinson’s support group at Quarry Hill Retirement Community in Camden has announced the topics for its monthly meetings from January through May 2008.

The support group meets from noon to 1:30 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month at the Anderson Inn at Quarry Hill.

Most meetings begin with a half-hour educational presentation related to Parkinson’s, after which those with Parkinson’s and caregivers separate into two groups for conversation. Participation is free and open to all those living with Parkinson’s, as well as their family members, friends and caregivers.

In January, the group will meet on the second Tuesday, Jan. 8, as the first Tuesday will be New Year’s Day.

On Feb. 5, Janey Barthelette, a respiratory therapist at Penobscot Bay Medical Center in Rockport, will speak on “Easy Everyday Preventive Strategies for Maintaining Optimum Health and Well-being.”

On March 4, Quarry Hill occupational therapist Ann Smith will discuss and demonstrate tips to help those living with Parkinson’s accomplish everyday activities more easily and safely.

April 1, pharmacist Nancy Nystrom of Waltz Pharmacy and family nurse practitioner Dorie Henning will focus on “What You Need to Know About Parkinson’s Medications and the Dietary Issues that Accompany Them.”

The winter-spring series will conclude on May 6 with a visit with neurologist Judd Jensen of Pen Bay Neurology, who will cover the progression and treatment of Parkinson’s disease.

For more information about the group, call Quarry Hill health services coordinator Suzanne Miller at 230-6224 or visit www.quarryhill.org.