Join us on April 12 for an afternoon of learning and connection in Prince George. Gain valuable insights from leading experts, connect with the community, and deepen your understanding of this complex condition.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn and engage!

Light refreshments will be provided. Please contact Alana Dhillon with any dietary restrictions before March 31.

Session 1: Motor and Non-Motor Symptoms | Dr. Tara Rastin, Movement Disorder Specialist

Parkinson’s disease (PD) affects both motor and non-motor functions, impacting mobility, cognition, speech, mood, and more. Together, these symptoms can make daily life challenging. This session will explore how motor and non-motor symptoms affect quality of life and how a comprehensive treatment approach can support well-being and, in some cases, help slow disease progression.

Dr. Tara Rastin will provide an overview of PD symptoms and discuss both pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment strategies to help individuals manage their condition effectively.

Session 2: Voice, Cognitive Communication, and Swallowing | Jasmine Cload, Speech Language Pathologist

Discover the essential role of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in addressing communication and swallowing difficulties in PD.  In this informative session, Jasmine will highlight key signs and symptoms while sharing effective management strategies for all stages of PD. This session is ideal for anyone looking to learn about:

• Swallowing safety and warning signs
• Changes in speech and voice
• Available treatment options
• Cognitive-communication challenges and how to manage them
• Saliva control, including strategies for drooling and dry mouth

Session 3: Ready, Set, Steady! | Shelly Yu, Physiotherapist

Join Shelly Yu, Parkinson Society BC physiotherapist, for an insightful session on maintaining balance, preventing falls, and staying steady on your feet. Learn how to reduce your risk of falls through environmental adjustments, physical exercises, and cognitive strategies. Walk away with practical tips to improve your stability, agility, and confidence in daily life.

The conference will also include two exercise breaks.

Parkinson Society BC appreciates all gifts, as they allow us to continue to offer programs people with Parkinson’s disease and their carepartners rely on. If you wish, you can make a donation by entering an amount in the Additional Donation field.

Please note: These sessions are designed to provide general education and are not intended for individual advice and/or clinical care. Please note that any Q&A sessions that take place will not be recorded.