|
April 2004 Program helps Parkinson’s patients
A movement disorders program has been designed to help people on the Mornington Peninsula living with Parkinson’s disease to manage the problems they face completing everyday tasks. Located at Peninsula Health’s Rosebud Rehabilitation Unit, the new program takes a multi-disciplinary approach to the patients’ rehabilitation process. Peninsula Health’s catchment area currently has one of the largest populations of people with Parkinson’s disease in Victoria—about 900 people. Speech pathologist and co-ordinator of the movement disorders program David Meade said staff at the unit were professionals from a variety of specialisations. ‘Our team is designed to provide patients living with movement disorders well-rounded support that improves their health and quality of life.’ ‘A rehabilitation specialist assesses patients to tailor a program to their needs. ‘This may include help from a speech pathologist, dietician, social worker, physiotherapist, nurse or occupational therapist. ‘Patients can receive closer monitoring in a specialised environment where their treatment and medication can be optimised.’ The Rehabilitation Unit has four dedicated inpatient beds available for the movement disorders program and those requiring medication management and rehabilitation. An outpatient clinic has also been opened recently for Parkinson’s disease sufferers seeking assessment. Education is a focus of the program, aiming to assist care-givers and family members of people with movement disorders. Jane Smith, daughter of Sarah Smith, who has Parkinson’s disease, said the new program was making a difference to her mother’s life. ‘I’ve noticed a change not just in mum’s ability to carry out everyday tasks but also in her attitude in coping with the illness. ‘The program makes you realise there is support available and methods that can help for both sufferers and their families.’ • For further information about the Peninsula Health movement disorders program call 5986 3344. |
