Program areas at ParkinsonFoundationorg & PFNCA
Education programs & support: PFNCA provided extensive educational programing for families impacted by Parkinson's disease in Fiscal Year 2023. Programming was provided with options for in person or online participation to allow greater access for people concerned about Covid-19 or who experienced transportation or other challenges. PFNCA provided its annual educational conference - the PFNCA Symposium. Developed by PFNCA's Medical Advisory Board, the event was held April 15, 2023 in Falls Church, Virginia. There was also a view on demand option. Session topics included Approaches to Medicine Management, Research Updates: Interpreting PD Research in the News, Humanizing Surgery Options, PD perspectives: Are we on the same page?, Non-Motor Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease, (See Sch O)
Public awareness: PFNCA works to raise awareness within our community about Parkinson's disease. The Foundation's e-newsletter - PD Info for You helps educate readers about the disease. PFNCA also produces print materials and maintains a website with educational resources. PFNCA's Community Outreach Vehicle and mascot (AMP) attended several events in FY23 to raise awareness of living well with Parkinson's.
Wellness classes/programs: A large part of PFNCA's service emphasizes allowing those diagnosed with Parkinson's disease to slow the negative aspects of how the disease makes them feel. Key components of this effort include movement (exercise, boxing, yoga and dance) and voice strengthening (communications club and choir) programs. During Fiscal Year 2023, PFNCA offered program sessions at no per session cost for people impacted by Parkinson's disease who reside in Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia and elsewhere. Prior to COVID-19 restrictions being enacted, PFNCA provides programs in 34 different locations in 26 cities/ communities in Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C. After COVID-19 restrictions were announced in 2020, programming was provided virtually and continued by this method during a portion (See Sch O)