Independent Group Discussion Topic Ideas

Below is a list of potential resources to consider engaging that are often available within the Parkinson's community, as well as your local area, to come and share or demo with your group! 

The Area Agency on Aging: to discuss Programs & Services: A Matter of Balance, Living with Chronic Conditions, SHIIP Counseling, Caregiver Support, etc 

 Occupational Therapists: (Life Glider, Laser Cane, Balance Vest, Home Modifications, etc.) 

• Acupuncturist: to talk about potential benefits and techniques
• Psychologist or Counselor: Strategies for defeating apathy,   depression, hallucinations, etc
• Parkinson’s Psychiatrist: to discuss medications, sleep   disturbances, mind. mood, memory, hallucinations, medications, etc.
• Speech Therapist: to talk about speech, swallowing &   drooling, and LSVT LOUD program
• Physical Therapist: Exercise that’s best for gait training, strength, balance,   coordination etc, as well as falls prevention and LSVT BIG program
• Music Therapist: a therapy to address the physical,   emotional, cognitive and social needs of individuals
• Pharmaceutical representatives & Neurologists: to talk about medications & treatments such as DBS, Apokyn, Inbrija, Rytary, etc
• Nutritionist: dietary considerations for Parkinson’s,   medication/protein interactions, fiber and water intakes, etc.
• Gastroenterologist: talk about digestion, constipation, SIBO (small intestinal bacteria overgrowth), etc
• Yoga for PD Instructor: It has shown to reduce tremor, improve balance and gait, increase flexibility, improve posture, loosen painful muscles and reduce stress
• Rock Steady Boxing Rep: Rock Steady Boxing, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization, gives people with Parkinson’s disease hope by improving their quality of life through a non-contact boxing based fitness curriculum. 
• Dance for PD Instructor: The American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA) defines dance/movement therapy as the psycho-therapeutic use of   movement to promote the emotional, social, cognitive and physical integration   of the individual.
• Massage Therapist: Many people with Parkinson’s use massage   therapy in an attempt to improve well-being and alleviate symptoms of pain,   rigidity, fatigue, depression and even tremor
• Chiropractic Doctor: to discuss Chiropractic therapy and   joint & musculoskeletal pain 
• Alexander Technique / Poise for Parkinson’s rep: Alexander   technique works directly with cognition to teach new ways of thinking about   organizing movement while carrying out exercise or during daily activities   away from class (Project, 2021)
• CBD Distributor: There has been interest in cannabidiol (CBD) as a treatment option for PD
• Art Therapy/Therapist: Interest in finding ways to focus,   relax, create and remain socially engaged
• Aromatherapist and/or essential oils rep: The practice of   aromatherapy uses natural plant extracts, such as essential oils, hydrosols, and carrier oils, in a variety of ways to heal the body, mind and spirit
• T’ai Chi Instructor: Integrates elements of balance, flexibility and coordination (motor function) with focused mental attention   and multitasking (cognitive function)