July 2025 Gathering Summary: Support Group Meetings Review
In an effort to provide comprehensive support for individuals affected by Parkinson's disease, Parkinson's NSW has introduced a range of online support groups. These groups cater to various aspects of living with Parkinson's, offering a platform for discussion, learning, and connection.
To join any of these groups, interested individuals are invited to reach out to Parkinsons NSW at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) for the relevant mailing list.
**Let's Talk Parkinson's**
This bi-monthly support group, held via Zoom, welcomes individuals with Parkinson's and those interested in a variety of topics. Each session features presentations by health and allied health professionals, followed by discussion and Q&A. The meetings are recorded and available on the organisation's YouTube channel in the "Living Well with Parkinson’s" library.
**Carers Chat**
Monthly meetings via Zoom are exclusively for carers/spouses of someone living with Parkinson's. Facilitated by Parkinson's NSW counsellors, these sessions do not get recorded. Past topics have included empathy burnout, Carer Gateway services, panic attacks, journalling, resilience, and mindfulness.
**Early/Young Onset**
Quarterly meetings via Zoom are designed for people living with Parkinson's under the age of 65 years. These sessions feature health and allied health professionals, discussions, Q&A, and recorded meetings that are shared only with registered participants.
**DBS and Advanced Therapies**
This quarterly support group is for those considering or who have already undergone Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) or advanced therapies (such as Apomorphine, Duodopa). The meetings, facilitated by a health professional, are recorded, but not shared with carers/spouses of someone living with Parkinson's. Only those who register for the meetings have access to the recordings.
It is essential to note that the DBS and Advanced Therapies support group is not exclusive to people living with Parkinson's under the age of 65 years. The group is for individuals who are interested in or are undergoing DBS or advanced therapies.
In conclusion, Parkinson's NSW offers a variety of online support groups, providing a valuable resource for those affected by Parkinson's disease. Whether you are a person living with Parkinson's, a carer, or someone considering advanced therapies, there is a support group available to cater to your needs. For more information, please visit [www.parkinsonsnsw.org.au](http://www.parkinsonsnsw.org.au).
- The Let's Talk Parkinson's support group, held bi-monthly, incorporates discussions on various topics related to Parkinson's disease that involve presentations from health and allied health professionals, emphasizing a blend of science and mental health.
- Early/Young Onset support group, held quarterly, is specifically designed for individuals living with Parkinson's under the age of 65, promoting health-and-wellness conversations among this demographic and featuring discussions with health and allied health professionals.
