Oct. 13 program to address anesthesia and surgery for neurology patients
A seminar on Neurological Patient Issues: Dealing with Anesthesia and Surgery will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 13, at Conley’s United Methodist Church, 33106 Jolyns Way, Lewes. The seminar is open to people suffering from Parkinson’s or other neurological diseases, their families, friends and healthcare providers. In-home caregivers and personal assistants are especially encouraged to participate to learn how to anticipate their neurological patients’ needs. For more information on the event, contact Marge Fleming Smith, 302-354-5453 or mflemingsmith@yahoo.com.
Members of the Parkinson’s Education and Support Group of Sussex County know firsthand the dangers of their loved ones being provided with a medication they should avoid following an elective or emergency surgery, because a member of our group was given a medication which slowed down his recovery. This inspired members to plan an education session to provide expert medical speakers from Beebe Healthcare, Christiana Care Health System, and Virginia Commonwealth University, along with Delaware Lt. Gov. Bethany Hall-Long, a nurse and a professor at the University of Delaware.
The local Parkinson’s group members also realize that studies show the nonmedical, in-home caregivers are a vital part of keeping our loved ones at home. These home caregivers typically assist with activities of daily living such as walking, dressing, eating, bathing, toileting and continence care. Many also provide meal preparation, light housework, errand running, transportation and companionship. Many nonmedical caregivers are participating in our monthly Parkinson’s group meetings and caregiver discussions to learn about methods and resources being used to better assist with taking care of their patients.
Research indicates this trend is going to increase over the next 10 years since there are over 1 million people diagnosed with Parkinson’s in America. The need for local support is rising as many are retiring to Delaware beaches and surrounding areas. For more information about the Parkinson’s Education and Support Group of Sussex County, contact Patricia Slygh, 410-322-3000, pcslygh@comcast.net, or Glen Henderson, 301-704-0466, henso1@verizon.net. Our meetings are held the first Monday of the month at the Lutheran Church of Our Savior, 20276 Bay Vista Road, Rehoboth Beach. Meetings begin with exercise class at 1 p.m. followed by a guest speaker at 2 p.m. Because of Labor Day, the September meeting is held on the second Monday.
Our group currently offers a variety of exercise programs throughout Sussex County, including tai chi, spinning, stability and balance, boxing, and dance. Instructors are trained to lead classes specifically designed for those with Parkinson’s disease. More information is available at sussexdeparkinsons.com. All are welcome to participate and learn more about how we provide care for those with Parkinson’s disease.
