A Journey Through Parkinson’s Disease learning sessions to be hosted in Orange City

Growing older is the greatest risk factor for acquiring Parkinson’s Disease and many people live with symptoms for several years before being diagnosed. To provide more resources on the topic, Iowa State University (ISU) Extension and Outreach will host A Journey Through Parkinson’s Disease on Oct. 8, 15 and 22 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the ISU Extension and Outreach office in Orange City.

A Journey Through Parkinson’s Disease is an educational program focused on Parkinson’s Disease, its effects, and possible treatments. The series consists of three, 45-minute sessions which include interactive lessons, discussions, and activities. There is no fee to attend and sessions are open to the public.

Throughout the program, participants will discuss the signs of Parkinson’s Disease and how to seek medical care, the cause of the disease, how specific treatments work, and alternative therapies and in-home activities that can delay the progression of the disease.

“Often, people in early stages of Parkinson’s Disease assume their symptoms are part of normal aging or are due to other health problems that they may have,” said Lori Hayungs, Human Sciences Specialist in Family Life with ISU Extension and Outreach. “As we will discuss, early Parkinson’s Disease symptoms may not be that easy to recognize, and oftentimes, it is a spouse or other relative that notices slight problems with a loved one’s movements.”

For that reason, Hayungs invites anyone with an interest in Parkinson’s Disease or individuals who may be worried about a family member, friend or neighbor to participate in this free program.

For more information and/or to preregister for the program, visit http://bit.ly/ajtpd13899, contact the ISU Extension and Outreach Sioux County Office at 712-737-4230 or email xsioux@iastate.edu.