Southern recently launched our first Parkinson's NSW Newly Diagnosed Information Program in Goulburn, providing essential support and education for people recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s and their care partners.
This one-day program was open to individuals who had received a Parkinson’s diagnosis or started medication within the past two years, along with their care partners.
The agenda covered all aspects of Parkinson’s medication and symptom management, featuring local Clinical Nurse Consultant Lauren Hogan alongside Goulburn-based allied health professionals.
Lauren Hogan provided an overview of Parkinson’s disease and available medications. Occupational Therapist Alice Beardmore highlighted the benefits of occupational therapy, while Clinical Dietitian Brittany Hughes discussed the importance of good nutrition for those living with Parkinson’s. Speech Pathologist Leanne Cox covered the advantages of speech therapy, and Senior Physiotherapist Louise Condon emphasized the role of exercise in managing Parkinson’s symptoms.
Participants also had the opportunity to share their experiences of diagnosis and support in a group setting.
Post-event feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with the majority of attendees rating the program’s content as “Very High Quality” and stating they would be “Extremely Likely” to recommend it to others.
Parkinson’s NSW hosts monthly Newly Diagnosed Information Programs in Sydney, and due to growing demand, two sessions per year are now planned for Goulburn.
Referrals to the Goulburn program are through Southern's Central Intake service.