Parkinson's Disease Specialist's talk for care home residents

Staff and residents at Barchester’s White Lodge care home in Braydon marked Parkinson’s Awareness Week by hearing a talk from a specialist.

Suz Jackson explained how Parkinson's could affect different parts of the brain and the body, causing involuntary movements or rigidity in muscles which can then ‘freeze up’ and not work.  

The condition is named for James Parkinson (1755-1824), who was a neurologist, geologist, scientist and activist. Parkinson’s Awareness Week is a global call to action to raise awareness of Parkinson’s disease and promote a greater understanding of the condition and how it can affect a person.

During Suz Jackson's talk, residents and staff learned about the possible psychological impact of the medication used to treat the disease, which can cause compulsive behaviours and depression in some people.  

It can also be linked to a reduced sense of smell, impaired vision and attention deficit disorder.

White Lodge General Manager Ramona Gherendi said: “Parkinson’s affects a lot of older people and some of our residents are living with the disease so it was important for us to mark the week.  

"We have all learned a great deal about the effects of Parkinson’sand have a greater understanding of how varied and unpredictable the symptoms can be.”

 White Lodge care home provides nursing, residential and dementia care for respite residents and longer-term care.