A diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease can be frightening and overwhelming, but patients and families touched by Parkinson’s disease have several more reasons to be hopeful this year.
When the movement disorder progresses, patients will gradually experience tremors, muscle stiffness, and trouble with balance. Although there is no cure and symptoms become more severe over time, medication and treatments can help alleviate certain symptoms.
“Patients who are newly diagnosed often come to us worried and unsure what their path forward is,” said Alessandra Swarowsky Martin, PT, PhD, Doctor of Physical Therapy Associate Professor at AdventHealth University.
Dr. Martin is hoping to provide peace of mind and physical relief to Parkinson’s patients through a new program funded with an impactful grant from the Parkinson’s Association of Central Florida.
“I am so grateful to now be able to offer an extended plan of care for Parkinson’s patients who may not be able to afford this type of therapy otherwise,” said Dr. Martin.
Since 2012, individuals who are underinsured or uninsured are able to receive free physical and occupational therapy at AdventHealth University’s Hope Clinic while students receive hands-on clinical experience. Dr. Martin’s Central Florida Parkinson’s Access Initiative will take place at Hope Clinic in Apopka, Florida.
“Many with Parkinson’s disease do not receive the therapy they need due to cost, access, or insurance limitations,” said Dr. Martin, who has a master’s degree and doctoral degree in neuroscience and specializes in neurological rehabilitation.
The Initiative includes free physical and occupational therapy, group exercise classes, balance and gait training, aerobic fitness, and caregiver education workshops, all led by licensed physical therapists, occupation therapists and their trained students.
“Our hope is that adults with Parkinson’s disease will gain strength and endurance and improve their balance – all resulting in less falls, more confidence, and enhanced quality of life,” said Dr. Martin.
The program is expected to begin this summer with one-on-one clients, and group services will launch in September. Each patient will receive an individualized plan of care that addresses the person’s functional level and specific therapy needs.
“We are so proud of Dr. Martin for her passion to provide hope and healing to Parkinson’s patients and their caregivers,” said Olga Melnik, OTR/L, Director of Hope Clinic. “When you see a Parkinson’s patient regain movement, it’s a powerful moment for everyone in the therapy room.”
The Parkinson’s Association of Central Florida also awarded a grant to AdventHealth for Brain Health Outreach.