Episode 14: Strategies for Implementing Person-Centered Parkinson’s Care

Posted: December 11, 2023 , in ComForConnections Podcast

Strategies for Implementing Person-Centered Parkinson’s Care

Parkinson's disease (PD) affects nearly 1 million people in the U.S. and is projected to rise to 1.2 million by 2030. It is the second-most common neurodegenerative disease, following Alzheimer's disease, and sees nearly 90,000 new diagnoses in the U.S. each year.

Today’s episode follows a recent panel where a veteran caregiving executive and Parkinson’s Care expert shares her insights on the latest approaches, best practices, and innovative techniques for caring for individuals with Parkinson’s disease.

Aging Services Professionals get ready to walk away feeling more prepared and empowered to help prioritize the unique care needs of individuals living with PD.

Panelist:

Melissa Morante, Co-Owner and Chief Marketing Officer of ComForCare Home Care - Broward County, Delray Beach, Miami-Dade, Palm Beach County and Treasure Coast

Click to listen to this episode:

About Melissa:
Melissa Morante is the co-owner and Chief Marketing Officer of ComForCare Home Care of Palm Beach and Treasure Coast. She is the location’s Parkinson’s Care Expert and sits on the Board of Directors for the Mind Music Movement Foundation, helping bring education and support to those living with neurodegenerative diseases in South Florida.

Melissa is responsible for training caregivers on both motor and non-motor symptoms, disease progression and the importance of timing and food when taking Parkinson’s medications. She facilitates support groups each month for those living with Parkinson's disease and their family caregivers throughout Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast.

Melissa is a former board member of the American Parkinson's Disease Association, South Florida Chapter, a Support Group Facilitator and a Certified Group Fitness instructor with a specialty in senior fitness and Parkinson's exercise. She has a unique understanding of the disease and how to work with those living with Parkinson's.

Episode Notes:

Parkinson's disease and its progression
Strategies for caring for individuals living with PD
3 strategies and additional resources for promoting person-centered care
3 key aspects of the person-centered care philosophy as applied to older adults with PD receiving home and community-based services (HCBS)

Episode Resources:

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