Support offered for Parkinson’s

A new support group formed by the American Parkinson Disease Association meets from 1 to 2:30 p.m. every third Wednesday of the month at the Astoria Senior Residence, 4520 Willens Ave., Woodland Hills.

Recognizing the devastating effects of this illness on the victim, his caregivers and family, the support group tries to motivate patients and their caregivers in maximizing strengths, minimizing impediments, and achieving and maintaining full potential. Participants receive emotional support, practical assistance in coping with problems and the latest information about research, government programs and other activities available for their benefit.

Parkinson’s disease is caused by the degeneration of neurons in the brain, resulting in decreased dopamine availability. Clinically, the disease is characterized by a decrease in spontaneous movements, gait difficulty, postural instability, rigidity and tremor. Both men and women are affected.

Administration of the drug levodopa has been the standard treatment for the disease. Treatment with levodopa doesn’t, however, cure the disease or prevent the progressive nature of the disease.

The frequency of Parkinson’s disease is considerably higher in the over-60 age group, even though there’s an alarming increase in younger patients. Caregivers must cope with increasing physical, behavioral, emotional, legal and financial problems. For caregivers to the 1.5 million people in the U.S. who have Parkinson’s disease, the standard workweek consists of 24-hour days, seven days a week. The stress created by this, as well as their own health problems and family concerns, can be overwhelming.

For more information about the newly formed support group, please call Viviane Tondeur at (310) 247-9343 or the American Parkinson Disease Association at (800) 908-2732.