New Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Technology Now Available Posted on July 6, 2020July 6, 2020 by Phil Franchina Medtronic announces introduction of Percept PC Neurostimulator with Brainsense Technology On June 26, 2020 Medtronic announced the introduction of an upgraded deep brain stimulation (DBS) system known as PerceptTM PC Neurostimulator with BrainsenseTM Technology. The technology in the new system is the first to not only deliver electrical stimulation to the brain, with the goal […] Read More
Let’s talk about Augmentative and Alternative Communication and Parkinson’s disease Posted on June 30, 2020 by Phil Franchina Many people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) find that their speech and communication skills are impacted as their disease progresses. Low voice volume, imprecise speech, lack of inflection, rapid speech and other issues can become problems for some people living with PD. There are steps you can take early on that will help strengthen and preserve […] Read More
What’s Happening at APDA Posted on June 12, 2020June 25, 2020 by Phil Franchina What’s Happening at APDA A Facebook First Just as many of you have been learning how to work from home, connect virtually, and figure out new ways to get things done, APDA has been doing the same! We knew we had to find different ways to stay connected, so to get things started we hosted […] Read More
Walking Separately, but Together Posted on June 12, 2020June 25, 2020 by Phil Franchina Walking Separately, but Together The 2020 Optimism Walk season kicked-off with four virtual Optimism Walks which all took place simultaneously on May 31, 2020. After an online celebration and opening ceremony, participants in all four events walked separately, but together in solidarity for the PD community. Due to social distancing, participants were encouraged to walk […] Read More
Staying Connected While Social Distancing Posted on June 12, 2020June 25, 2020 by Phil Franchina Staying Connected While Social Distancing Challenges often force us to adapt and learn new ways of doing things. No one knows that better than people living with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Facing new challenges As COVID-19 became a reality and communities implemented social distancing guidelines, the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) faced some significant challenges. […] Read More
Sing for PD Posted on June 12, 2020June 25, 2020 by Phil Franchina Sing for PD The APDA National Headquarters was filled with song as people with PD sang their hearts out during our first-ever Sing for PD class in March. A program of the Mark Morris Dance Group, Sing for PD focuses on breathing and vocal technique, rhythm, melody, song interpretation, and creativity. Instructor Joseph Peterson took […] Read More
Helping People with Parkinson’s Disease Overcome Barriers Posted on June 12, 2020 by Phil Franchina Helping People with Parkinson’s Disease Overcome Barriers People with PD who are from underserved communities — those who are low income, speak English as a second language, live in rural areas, or are members of minority groups often face unique barriers that affect their access to quality care. Through a generous grant from Neurocrine […] Read More
Ask the Doctor/Q&A with Dr. Rebecca Gilbert Posted on June 12, 2020June 24, 2020 by Phil Franchina Ask the Doctor/Q&A with Dr. Rebecca Gilbert Q: I have heard about gene therapy for Parkinson’s disease. What is this and how do I know if I am a good candidate for this? A: Gene therapy is a category of potential treatments in which a genetically-engineered virus, which contains a small fragment of DNA, […] Read More
American Parkinson Disease Association RESPONDS TO COVID-19 WITH SUPPORT FROM ADIRA FOUNDATION Posted on June 9, 2020June 9, 2020 by Phil Franchina American Parkinson Disease Association RESPONDS TO COVID-19 WITH SUPPORT FROM ADIRA FOUNDATION APDA Receives Adira’s Fast-Trask Response Grant to Assist People With Parkinson’s Disease During Pandemic NEW YORK, NY – June 9, 2020 — The American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) has been supporting people living with Parkinson’s disease (PD) for more than 60 years. However, […] Read More
A statement from APDA in this time of unrest Posted on June 2, 2020 by Phil Franchina All of us at the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) support equality for all and reject racism. Our programs are open to everyone and we foster a safe and welcoming place for all to join us, whether virtually or in person. Disparities and injustice exist on many levels, including within the healthcare system. At APDA, […] Read More
