Parkinson’s in Whanganui

Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive, degenerative neurological disorder that mostly affects physical movement. There is no cure and no known cause for Parkinson’s, and is mostly found in older members of the population, but not always. There is no x-ray, blood test or scan to provide confirmation, so diagnosis is by presentation of symptoms. Often symptoms are evident for a period of time prior to the patient seeing their GP or Specialist Neurologist. The correct drug regime for the individual can ensure that the symptoms are kept under control, and each patient will be prescribed drugs that are suitable for them. Symptoms include tremor, shuffling gait, bland expression, anxiety, depression, social withdrawal, and softening of the speech. Movement and physical activity are crucial to the well-being of the person with Parkinson’s and 10,000 steps per day is the bench mark. Parkinson’s New Zealand Charitable Trust (PNZCT) is the governing body and is based in Wellington. There are 4 Community Engagement Advisor’s (CEA) who are the vital link between the regions and Head Office. Clinical support is provided for the Whanganui, Rangitikei, and Ruapehu regions by a nurse (RN) who is based in Whanganui. Our region has a committee (Parkinson’s Action Group) with a chairperson, administrator and committee members. Whanganui Parkinson’s Activities include: Virginia Lake walk on Monday morning. Steady As You Go (SAYGO) exercise group on a Tuesday afternoon. Counterpunch Boxing on Wednesday morning and Friday morning. 2 – 3 seminars per year. 2 monthly get together’s for carers. Mid-year and Christmas social activities. Should you know of anyone with Parkinson’s like symptoms, please advise them to get in touch with their GP who can recommend the best way forward, whether it is to get further advice from a specialist neurologist or to visit the geriatrician at the Whanganui Base Hospital. For more information contact: • www.parkinsons.org.nz or ph 0800 473 4636 • Jac La Pouple (Whanganui Parkinson’s nurse) 027 218 9988 • Fraser Stewart 027 2477 242 (Whanganui Action Group)

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Masonic Court Offers:

1. No premiums charged on any rooms, including ensuite rooms. 2. An Activities programe that has something for everyone. 3. Home cooked meals catering to individual tastes. 4. Expansive and sunny gardens

Masonic Court – Care You Can Trust

Your Health is Our Business

BELVERDALE

PRIVATE SURGICAL

HOSPITAL LTD

Belverdale Hospital, Wanganui’s privately owned surgical hospital, is proud to provide specialist surgical health care to the public of Wanganui and District. Belverdale Hospital’s surgical specialists, management and staff are committed to provide quality patient-centred health care. The Hospital offers a relaxing atmosphere, which blends modern facilities with traditional personal attention. Belverdale Hospital is certified by the Ministry of Health. Our spacious and

comfortable surgical ward has 15 private rooms, all with ensuites, and two twin bedrooms for children. A peaceful private courtyard and lounge area is available for patients and their families. We accept all medical insurance and privately paying patients and are happy to discuss costs and payment options. Belverdale Hospital is also an affiliated provider for Southern Cross Healthcare. Specialist surgery offered at Belverdale Hospital includes: • ENT, Head & Neck Surgery • General Surgery • Gynaecological Surgery • Orthopaedic Surgery See your GP for referral or for more information please contact Bronwen Butchart - Hospital Manager 5 Campbell St, Wanganui. Ph 348 1182 • Fax 348 1183

Email: manager@belverdale.co.nz • www.belverdale.co.nz