Recently, I came across a poignant remark made by a healthcare worker when she stated, “…just because COVID-19 is adding a new dynamic to our daily lives, it has not changed the fact that healthcare support is still needed for all the people experiencing non-COVID medical emergencies and living with chronic diseases.” This statement applies to many categories of people and is true of those living with Parkinson’s.

In a previous post, I provided links to information for people who have questions about how the global pandemic may impact people with PD. You can check it out here.

With stay-at-home orders and self-quarantining in place we are opting out of in-person events and going online to observe the month of April as Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month. Parkinson’s disease affects those who live with it year-round and building awareness is crucial to pushing research initiatives forward no matter the month. With that said, I always look forward to the influx of events, seminars, creativity, and community that occurs in April. April can serve as an adrenaline shot to focus the community, seek out those who need support, and educate our communities on how they can collaborate to get rid of this disease.

If you are sitting on your couch wondering how to actively engage with others or learn something new about Parkinson’s disease, here are a few outlets to do just that:

Mindfulness Mondays by Parkinson’s Foundation (FREE)
Date: April 6, 2020 + April 13, 2020  Time: 1:00 pm-2:00 pm EST

Description: It can be difficult to stay positive in this time with the constant stream of news, staying indoors and socially isolating ourselves. You are not alone! Join us every Monday for Mindful Mondays — where there will be expert speakers giving tips on staying mindful in this unique time and the chance to interact and discuss with others.

Mind, Mood and Motion by Parkinson’s Foundation (FREE)
Date: April 7, 2020                            Time: 1:00 pm-2:00 pm EST

Description: Changes in thinking and memory can affect both people with Parkinson’s and their care partners, family and friends. The Mind, Mood, and Motion program will teach participants about these changes and the steps they can take in their daily lives to reduce the effects these symptoms might have.

Series: Take Time Thursdays by Parkinson’s Foundation (FREE)

Description: Engage with a PD expert on the topics that matter most to you ― from exercise, nutrition, stress management and more. If you want to view additional topics, visit the Parkinson’s Foundation events page.

Topic: Managing Anxiety While You Are Socially Distant

Date: April 9, 2020                            Time: 1:00 pm-2:00 pm EST

Topic: Women and Parkinson’s Disease

Date: April 16, 2020                          Time: 9:00 am-10:00 am EST

Topic: How To Connect During Social Distancing

Date: April 16, 2020                          Time: 11:00 am-12:00 pm EST

Power For Parkinson’s YouTube Channel (FREE)
Date: Anytime                                    Time: Anytime

Description: We are a non-profit organization that provides multiple free exercise, dance, and singing classes in Austin and the surrounding communities as well as globally through our free home YouTube video series. While there are medications to help control the symptoms, exercise is essential to managing Parkinson’s disease!

The Victory Summit: Parkinson’s Support Symposium Online Educational Experience by Michigan Parkinson Foundation and Davis Phinney Foundation (FREE)
Date: April 24, 2020                          Time: 9:30 am-1:00 pm EST

Description: Join the Michigan Parkinson Foundation and the Davis Phinney Foundation for the Victory Summit Event: Parkinson’s Support Symposium online event. This educational event will be a moving morning of information and inspiration, featuring dynamic presentations from leading national and regional movement disorder specialists, clinicians, and therapists to help you on your path to living well with Parkinson’s.

Do you have additional events or resources you are using at home right now? Comment below and share with us!