Ask the Expert Webinar: Dementia in Parkinson's

It can be challenging to recognize and distinguish between cognitive changes in Parkinson's, and the symptoms of dementia that may manifest in advanced stages of the disease. In this webinar, Dr. Naaz Parmar will provide an understanding of dementia, its different subtypes, and how they can affect a person with Parkinson's. This presentation will also provide an overview of treatment options, including lifestyle changes and medications. Coping strategies for a person with dementia and their loved ones will also be discussed.

Registration for this webinar closes on Wednesday, October 21. 

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Ask the Expert Webinar: Parkinson's Medication Q&A

Medication management plays an important role for many people with Parkinson's disease (PD). It can be overwhelming and confusing as medication regimens are adjusted, new medications are introduced, and side effects arise.

Bring your questions about medications as pharmacist Amy Tran joins Parkinson Society BC for a question and answer session. Whether you have questions about side effects of medications, the types of medications available for people with PD, or about medication management, Amy will be available to answer your questions and to provide resources to empower you to get the most out of your treatment.

Registration for this webinar closes on Wednesday, October 28. 

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Improv for Parkinson's: Laughter is the Best Medicine!

This course is designed to introduce students with Parkinson’s disease (PD) to the foundations of improvisation and apply improv skills to life with PD. Participants will build community, learn new skills, work together, tell stories, and laugh!

We encourage family members and carepartners to attend with participants, as many games can be played at home after the class. No previous improv experience necessary.

Please note that registration for “Laughter is the best medicine” will be prioritized to those who have not participated in improv classes before. If you have participated in improv classes before please consider registering for the “Performance Troupe” course or contact Courtney Doherty at cdoherty@parkinson.bc.ca to be added to the waitlist for this course.

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Improv for Parkinson's: The Performance Troupe

Join the first ever Canadian Improv PD Performance Troupe! Those with previous improv experience are invited to join the Performance Troupe to focus on applying the foundations of improv for performance.

In this course, you will develop as part of an ensemble & grow towards a performance opportunity. We will dive into more specifics, learn and practice games, and finish the course with a Student Showcase.

Improv experience is required for registration.

Register

Drumming for Parkinson's — Fall Series

This fall, Doug Pickard, REMO Health Rhythms Facilitator and Rock Steady Boxing Affiliate Owner, leads an 8-week drumming class for Parkinson's.

Express your feelings with easy-to-follow beats and rhythms, and add drumming to your toolbox of therapies and self-management strategies! Studies have shown that the rhythmic sound and movement of drumming may help improve motor skills, mood, and cognition in people with Parkinson's.

This series will apply the REMO Health Rhythms protocol — a holistic and evidence-based program for healthy, non-strenuous workout with a focus on socialization. One of the main goals of Health Rhythms is to understand the mind-body connection in the context of music-making. Doug and his colleagues are adapting this program to target the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

We welcome all people with Parkinson's disease and their carepartners to these classes. Registrants are encouraged to commit to the full series, as each session will build on skills and techniques introduced weekly. No musical experience is necessary.

Participants will need hand drumming equipment, such as a coffee can, box, or bucket.

Registration for this event has reached capacity. If you are interested in attending similar sessions in the future, please add your name to our waitlist. This will allow us to gauge future interest in the subject matter.

Join Waitlist

Drumming for Parkinson's — Winter Series

This winter, Doug Pickard, REMO Health Rhythms Facilitator and Rock Steady Boxing Affiliate Owner, leads an 8-week drumming class for Parkinson's.

Express your feelings with easy-to-follow beats and rhythms, and add drumming to your toolbox of therapies and self-management strategies! Studies have shown that the rhythmic sound and movement of drumming may help improve motor skills, mood, and cognition in people with Parkinson's.

This series will apply the REMO Health Rhythms protocol — a holistic and evidence-based program for healthy, non-strenuous workout with a focus on socialization. One of the main goals of Health Rhythms is to understand the mind-body connection in the context of music-making. Doug and his colleagues are adapting this program to target the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

We welcome all people with Parkinson's disease and their carepartners to these classes. Registrants are encouraged to commit to the full series, as each session will build on skills and techniques introduced weekly. No musical experience is necessary.

Participants will need hand drumming equipment, such as a coffee can, box, or bucket.

Registration for this event has reached capacity. If you are interested in attending similar sessions in the future, please add your name to our waitlist. This will allow us to gauge future interest in the subject matter.

Join Waitlist

Please note: Participation in the exercise programs listed below will be done at your own risk within your home. Please ensure you have the space needed to follow the exercises and that there are no obstacles or barriers in your way.

Parkinson Society BC (PSBC), and the instructors of the programs below, will not be held liable for accidents or incidents that may occur in your home. By participating in the exercise programs listed below, you are recognizing that risk of illness and/or injury may be inherent in any movement or exercise class and are participating with the express agreement of, and understanding that the program instructors, and Parkinson Society BC and its directors, officers, employees, partners, and agents are hereby released from any and all claims, costs, liabilities, expenses, or judgements associated with these exercise for Parkinson's programs.

Thawing Out: Exercises for Freezing

Freezing of gait can be one of the most frustrating motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. It often leads to falls and injuries which can reduce mobility and quality of life. Some of the best strategies for managing and reducing freezing episodes is to train the feet to walk slower, improve weight-shifting, and stepping in more symmetrical patterns. Cues and cognitive strategies can also help to direct attention to walking.

Join us in this online exercise series, as Parkinson Society BC's own neuro physiotherapist, Shelly Yu, leads us through 4 weeks of targeted exercises to improve motor patterns. The class will start in a sitting position, and move to standing. Please note that there will not be an option to remain seated the entire class, due to the nature of exercises targeting the feet and walking. Participants may wish to have a loved one nearby to ensure their safety. Proper footwear is recommended.

Equipment required for this class includes two chairs to hold on to, and a physical taget on the floor (eg. a taped line, a tissue box to step over, or two agility dots).

Registration is now closed. If you are interested in attending this exercise series, please add your name to our waitlist. If space is available, you will be registered for the next session automatically, and will receive appropriate login instructions.

Join Waitlist

Dance the Holidays: Nutcracker Repertoire

Unlock your creative side and freely immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with Continuum dancer and neuro physiotherapist, Shelly Yu.

In this series, Shelly will lead participants into a modified repertoire from the classic Nutcracker ballet. Dances include the famous Sugar Plum Fairy dance, Waltz of the Snowflakes, Mouse King Battle, March of the Toy Soldiers, Mother Ginger, and others.

The class will start in a seated position and move to a standing position, with modifications available for those who would like to remain seated for the entire class. No equipment is needed, and no prior dance experience is required. All abilities welcome!

Registration for this dance series closes on Tuesday, November 10. 

Register

Dr. Edward Ishiguro, Professor Emeritus in the University of Victoria Department of Biochemistry & Microbiology, joins us in this webinar series to discuss the link between the gut and Parkinson's disease.

These two sessions will cover the role of gut bacteria, and how our understanding of the gut-brain connection may lead to new treatments for Parkinson's, and perhaps even offer a glimpse into the mystery of what causes diseases like Parkinson's.

Interaction of Gut Bacteria with our Diet - Monday, November 9

About 30 trillion bacteria live in the human digestive tract. In this presentation, Dr. Edward Ishiguro summarizes the role of our gut bacteria — collectively called the gut microbiota — play in digestive processes, and how the interactions of these bacteria in our diets influence our overall health.

Dr. Ishiguro will also discuss proposed therapeutic approaches, such as dietary changes and probiotic use. Be prepared to bring your diet questions, as the final 10 minutes of this session will include a question and answer period. 

Involvement of the Gut Microbiota in Gut-Brain Communication & Immune Function – Monday, November 16

Based on the information provided in the first session of this series, this presentation focuses on the involvement of gut bacteria in the communication between the brain and the gut, and in immune function.

Dr. Ishiguro will also discuss how the disruption of these processes may contribute to the development and onset of a variety of diseases, including Parkinson's.

Note: Only one registration is required for the series.

Registration for this series closes Wednesday, November 4.

Learn More and Register

Duodopa^®️: Advanced Therapy for Parkinson’s

Duodopa^®️, or levodopa/carbidopa intestinal gel (LCIG), is an advanced therapy used in managing symptoms of advanced Parkinson's disease.

In this webinar, Dr. Tara Rastin, Movement Disorder Specialist at the Pacific Parkinson Research Centre, will focus on symptoms of advanced Parkinson's, and how LCIG works to improve them. Dr. Rastin will also explore challenges and/or limitations of LCIG, particularly in British Columbia, and highlight the types of patients who may benefit from this therapy.

Registration for this webinar will close Wednesday, November 11

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Deep Brain Stimulation: Surgical Therapy for Parkinson's Disease

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a surgical intervention used to treat disabling motor symptoms related to Parkinson's disease.

In this webinar, Nancy Polyhronopoulos, Registered Nurse, DBS Clinic at Vancouver General Hospital, will examine how DBS works to help reduce certain symptoms and effects of Parkinson's. She will also discuss what patients can expect before and after DBS surgery.

Registration for this webinar will close Wednesday, November 18

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Keeping Active and Motivated in Winter

As the winter season sets in, you might be finding yourself indoors more often and being less active.

Join Parkinson Society BC's own neuro physiotherapist, Shelly Yu, as she shares ideas on how you can keep active and motivated. She will offer practical tips, new exercises, and recommendations on frequency and intensity of exercise.

Registration for this webinar will close Wednesday, November 25.

Register

Motivational Interviewing for Healthcare Professionals

Motivational Interviewing is a collaborative, client-centered approach for encouraging behavioral change by helping clients explore and resolve apathy or confusion about their diagnoses. To help you better support your clients with Parkinson's disease (PD), Parkinson Society BC is hosting two training sessions for healthcare professionals.

Participants will build clinical skills to address knowledge deficits, uncertainty, and lack of motivation in relation to PD. The education session will be broken up into 2 sessions on Thursday, October 22^nd and Thursday, November 5^th from 4:30pm – 6:30pm both days. The training will include:

• Review of Motivational Interviewing with Linda Ehrlich-Jones RN, PhD, Assistant Director, Center for Rehabilitation Outcomes Research at the Shirley Ryan Ability Lab, and Clinical Research Scientist
• Online breakout groups to discuss and practice Motivational Interviewing techniques
• Presentation and discussion of breakout group work

These sessions will cover both Parkinson's and non-Parkinson's related issues, as well as address clinical barriers among individuals, couples, and families. Parkinson's disease barriers may include apathy, fear of the unknown, fear of falling, and/or anxiety over loss of independence — potentially hindering an individual's adherence to taking medications, participating in exercise programs, or the general ability to adapt to lifestyle changes.

Motivational Interviewing is applicable and relevant to healthcare professionals working across various settings including acute and/or community settings. We welcome healthcare professionals in all disciplines who work with People with Parkinson's to this webinar.

This event is for healthcare professionals only.

Registration for this event is now closed.

Young Onset Parkinson's Disease (YOPD)

Parkinson Society British Columbia is offering an online YOPD support group. This group is meant for individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's under the age of 60. 

A valid internet connection will be required to participate.

2^nd Tuesday of each month
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm

Register Now

Parkinson's Disease Support Group

In an effort to practice social distancing during the COVID-19 outbreak, many support groups have cancelled meetings until further notice. As a substitute, we have started a new weekly online support group for the Parkinson’s community to help stay connected and support each other during this time. Please note this group will communicate via chat (typing).

A valid internet connection will be required to participate.

1^st Friday of each month
9:00 am – 10:30 am

Register Now

Early to Mid-Stage Parkinson's Carepartner Support Group

This monthly online support group is geared for individuals caring for someone with early to mid-stage Parkinson's disease. Whether you are a spouse, partner, adult child, or friend, Parkinson Society British Columbia invites you to join our growing online community of support.

A valid internet connection will be required to participate.

3^rd Wednesday of each month 
9:00 am – 10:30 am

Register Now

• Digital Skills Classes for Modern Seniors
  Join Gluu Society for their comprehensive training sessions for iPhone and iPad, now free for Canadian seniors. Classes begin September 22.
  Hosted by Gluu Technology Society
  To learn more and register, visit gluusociety.org/fall-classes

• Parkinson's Balance & Mobility Classes
  Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays at 11:45am on Zoom
  Hosted by Surefeet
  To register, email info@surefeet.ca 

• Webinars on Various Topics
  Third Thursday of the month, 9:00am PST
  Hosted by Michael J. Fox Foundation
  Registration & Information

• Utilizing technology for safe and effective delivery of LSVT LOUD 
  Has COVID-19 made it more difficult to receive speech treatment? Attend this webinar to learn how technology, namely telepractice delivery and the LSVT Companion System, can be utilized to receive effective LSVT LOUD speech treatment with safe social distancing. You will also learn how technology can help in other situations, such as receiving services in rural areas without LSVT LOUD Certified Clinicians or finding time to fit in daily treatment sessions even with a full-time schedule. 
  Wednesday, October 21 at 11:00am-12:00pm
  Register here
  
  
• Benefits and Credits Presentation (CRA)
  Don’t miss out on the benefits and credits to which you may be entitled. Some of the benefits and credits to which you may be eligible for are the Canada child benefit, Disability tax credit, Child disability benefit, Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax Credit, and the Canada Workers Benefit. If you do your taxes after the filing deadline, your payments could be delayed. 
  October 6 & November 5 at 4:30pm-5:30pm, & November 26 at 1:00pm-2:00pm
  Register here
  

• Persons with Disabilities Presentation (CRA)
  If you live with a disability or have a dependent with a disability, there are benefits and tax credits available to you and the people who support you. Some of the benefits and credits to which you may be eligible for are the Disability tax credit, medical expenses, Canada caregiver credit, and the Child disability benefit.
  October 7, October 20, November 12, & December 3 at 4:30pm - 5:30pm
  Register here

• Longdistance Caregiving
  Join Wendy Johnstone for our Facebook Live Learning Session. Wendy will provide insight and strategies for long-distance caregiving. Presented by Family Caregivers of BC.
  October 20, at 9:00am - 10:00am
  Hosted live on Family Caregivers of BC's Facebook page. 

• RockSteady Boxing Home Exercises: Rock Steady Boxing, is a nonprofit that improves the quality of life for people with Parkinson's through a non-contact boxing based fitness. They are publishing workouts online.
• LSVT Global: LSVT Global is offering interactive exercise classes and free online resources! Click here for more information and to view all of the resources available!
• PWRMoves!: PWRMoves! hosted by Parkinson Wellness Recovery, is an online exercise program designed for those living with Parkinson's and focuses on foundational skills to help manage the symptoms of the disease. Classes run every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 1:00pm-1:45pm PST.
• Parkinson Society Newfoundland & Labrador Exercise Group: Join Parkinson Society Newfoundland & Labrador with weekly online exercise classes every Thursday at 9:30am, starting April 30th! Classes are hosted on the Facebook group, please request to be added in the group before joining.
• Fundamentals of Functional Movement: In this video series, physiotherapist Naomi Casiro (from NeuroFit BC) demonstrates exercises to help you keep up with your Parkinson's specific exercise routine. These workout videos are posted on Youtube.
• Parkinson's and Exercise Guide: This guide from Parkinson Society Southwestern Ontario provides exercise ideas, and step-by-step instructions for activities designed to help with Parkinson's symptoms.
• VON Exercise Class Videos: Help maintain your exercise schedule with these videos from VON. This exercise series provides workouts for different skill levels.
• Fitness Fridays: Taught by Joellyn Fox, Doctor of Physical Therapy, thesis 10-part videoseries focuses on fitness activities that are relevant to People with Parkinson's. 
• Parkinson's Exercise Essentials Video: The Parkinson's Exercise Essentials video, created by the David Phinney Foundation, demostrates a variety of workouts designed for People with Parkinson's. 
• IMPACT Parkinson's is offering various ongoing programs, such as online exercise classes and group voice therapy. Visit their website to view their event listings, or contact info@impactparkinsons.com to inquire about programs suitable for you.
• NeuroFit BC: Neurofit BC offers a number of live online exercise classes, and in-person group classes (capacity limited). They offer classes of different levels, as well as 1:1 physiotherapy.
• Ok Move: Local Instructors Sean Dance and Jeremy Bailleul are offering online exercise classes via Zoom. All you need is a sturdy chair and a place to move. Click on date and time on webpage up to 15 minutes before class time to join.
• Seated PWR! with Sean Dance: Mondays & Fridays at 1:00pm-1:45pm
• Seated boxing and cognitive flow exercises with Jeremy Bailleul: Wednesdays 1:00pm-1:45pm

• Mindfulness and Gentle Chair Yoga: Kate Landreth, Education & Learning Lead at Family Caregivers of BC, offers a mindfulness practice and seated yoga movement practice. Follow along from the comfort of your home. 
  
  
• Mindful Hand Drumming @ Home: Pain BC hosted a new live-stream series for people experiencing pain during COVID-19. Partnered with Rhythm Bliss, the sessions include 45-minute mindful and rhythmic hand drumming (no drum required). Previously recorded sessions can be accessed via Pain BC's Youtube Channel.
  
  
• Bereavement Walking Program: Hosted by Vancouver Hospice Society, these walking sessions are facilitated by trained hospice volunteers. Participants can find grief support and community while enjoying fresh air and gentle exercise. The next 8 week sessions are starting on Wednesday, September 9th, and Saturday, September 12 (walkers may join anytime in the 8 weeks). For information and registration contact Sue Wong at 604-731-7805 (Wednesday group), or Maggie Campbell at 604-602-9068 (Saturday group). 

• Virtual Journal Workshop: Presented by Family Caregivers of BC, join a private, safe, reflective writing process for family caregivers, focused on compassionate self-nurturing. In this 6-session workshop series, individuals write privately in a meditative, small group setting, short periods of writing follow brief verbal instruction on personal life-event categories. Short periods are also provided for participants to voluntarily read aloud in the “sacred space” of the workshop group—but, no special writing skills are required to participate!
  November 3, 10, 17, & 24, and December 1 & 8
  Contact cgsupport@familycaregiversbc.ca or call 1-877-520-3267 Ext 1 by October 19 to register for series. 

• Dance for PD Live Classes and Archives: Dance for PD has an archive of video dance classes and are hosting live video dance classes through their website.
• Dancing for Life with Parkinson's: Stay active from the comfort of your own home with these weekly online dance classes! This program is led by Charlotte Fowlow and takes place every Thursday at 8:00am PST. To join, send a request to the Facebook group. This service is offered by Parkinson Society Newfoundland & Labrador
• Music Therapy Classes: You can join a live stream music therapy class every Tuesday at 9:30am PST Friday at 5:30am PST on Facebook and led by Registered Musical Therapist, Renée White. These video classes are available after they are streamed on the Facebook Group. This service is offered by Parkinson Society Newfoundland & Labrador. 
• SongShine: SongShine uses both vocal and dramatic art to exercise the power of the brain, breath, and emotion for strenghtening your voice. Keep your voice strong with SongShine's online video series.
• Tango pour les Couples: (French) Tango Libre in collaboration with Parkinson Quebec are offering free Argentinian Tango classes for couples who have been touched by Parkinson's. Classes will run 9:00am - 10:00am PST. Course dates will be announced shortly.