It Takes a Village

Wouldn’t you want to know if you might be on the wrong path? Our Parkinson’s community is here for you. Have a question? Someone likely will know how to address it or have had experience with what you are going through. With the input from the founders’ team, the Wellness Village experts, and each other you can make your own plan for living your best life.

What do you really want? The Parkinson’s Resource Organization will give you the tools, resources, and freedom to make your own choices. A wide variety of disciplines each know and see issues through different lenses. I know that when I visit a retirement home or a private client, I often notice things that the caregivers didn’t know to look for or recognize even if they did see them. Seeing your situation through the eyes of others can give you insight and new knowledge. And knowledge is power, empowering you to make your life a positive experience.

What have other People with Parkinson’s experienced? PRO is a community where people are helping others with similar challenges, they all face. Take insights and share insights. Make friends and support each other. We are all in this together.

Make a life plan now! The first step is to find support, so your journey is with a knowledgeable support system. Talk to your medical team and learn what your prognosis is so you know what to expect over time.

Consult with other disciplines such as physical therapists, massage therapists, functional medicine experts, medical equipment specialists, as well as mental health and spiritual providers. There may be classes you want to take, hobbies you want to pursue, trips to organize, local entertainment to participate in, and family events you want to plan. Like all of us who are aging, do what you can while you can. And ask for the help you need.

So, gather your friends, family, and experts. Learn. Then with the support of your community, plan to do what you can to enjoy each day. Parkinson’s Resource Organization is here for you now and throughout your journey.

Linda Mac Dougall is the owner of Mac Dougall Consulting for Disabilities, LLC in Port Hueneme, CA. She is a Certified Massage Therapist, Holistic Health Practitioner, Senior Health Advocate with an M.A. in Counseling Psychology and has been a member of the Wellness Village since November 2021. 

ParkinsonsResource.org/the-wellness-village/directory/love-your-longevity. She is the author of “The SPIRIT Method of Massage for Seniors–Raising the Bar: A Primer for Massage Therapists and Caregivers” now on Amazon.