In this episode of the Listen for Life Aphasia podcast, we talk with Christi Cornell, the executive director of the Capital Area Parkinson Society (CAPS) in Austin. Christi shares her insights on the resources and support available for individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and their caregivers. She emphasizes the importance of education, socialization, and mental health care in managing the challenges associated with Parkinson's. Christi introduces CAPS's initiatives, which foster community engagement through educational talks, exercise sessions, and improv classes. She also discusses the concept of an "aging team" and the critical role of caregivers in providing emotional support.

Top Takeaways:

• Education is crucial for managing Parkinson's disease; start with reputable organizations like the American Parkinson's Foundation and the Michael J. Fox Foundation.

• Socialization and mental health care are vital to combat isolation among individuals with Parkinson's.

• CAPS offers programs to promote community engagement and support.

• Caregivers should be attuned to the emotional journey of their loved ones and practice patience and understanding.

• Open communication about safety and care preferences is essential for effective caregiving.

To take action, could you consider contacting CAPS for resources and support? Engage in open discussions with your family about aging and care preferences to plan ahead. Remember, you're not alone on this journey.

Contact Capital Area Parkinsons Society in the following ways:

Phone: 512-371-3373

Email: Christi@capitalareaparkinsons.org

Website: www.capitalareaparkinsons.org

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