Presentations

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Dora Jasso, M.A., CCC-SLP, CBIS, Bilingual Speech-Language Pathologist, and Outpatient Therapy Program Coordinator at Memorial Medical Center spoke with us about Parkinson’s Disease and Speech-Language Pathology. She discussed the Signs, Symptoms and Consequences of Swallowing Difficulty or Dysphagia.

John Pfirman, MS, CCC-SLP, CBIS –  a Speech-Language Pathologist in El Paso, TX, presented information on Augmentative and Alternative Communicative (AAC) devices, including the Eye Gaze  equipment developed by TobiiDynavox.  For example, one of the devices he showed us was a medically certified, eye-controlled device for Apple’s iPadOS accessibility features, enabling tasks such as tapping or scrolling using your eyes, fingers or a switch.  For more information see the video: What Is Augmentative Communication (AAC)? — Everyday Parkinson’s Help

In August we had a presentation from NeuroMotion Telehealth, an organization of Nurse Practitioners who work with Parkinson’s patients online.  This may be a good solution for those of us who cannot travel to see a specialist.

Mark Lusk’s presentaion: Depression and Self Care – Parkinson’s
January’s speaker, Dr. Mark W. Lusk, Professor Emeritus, Department of Social Work, UTEP, presented on the effects of depression and coping with Parkinson’s disease. He details psychological (negative thoughts, social isolation) and biological factors (brain changes) as well as environmental factor stress, medication side effects) that cause depression in PD patients, and how to cope with it.

Dr. Merranda Miran, PhD Licensed Psychologist, and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist presented strategies to improve communication and strengthen emotional bonds between caregivers and persons with Parkinson’s (PWPs).
Dr. Miran’s slides: Bridging the Gap: Empowering Communication, Independence, and Resilience for Parkinson’s Caregivers and Loved Ones

Paul Ford, NREMTP, Mobile Integrated Healthcare Furthering the Mission 
Guest speaker Paul Ford, NREMTP, the Mobile Integrated Heathcare Coordinator for the Las Cruces Fire Department, discussed the unique program he oversees. The MIH program helps people access and navigate the health care system through home and community visits, needs assesment, transportation, resolving home/ environmental safefty issues and other needs related to the social determinants of health.