What Is the Parkinson's Disease Coach Approach™?

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The Parkinson's Disease Coach Approach™ is a specialized care management service designed for individuals living with Parkinson's disease and their care partners. Our team provides expert guidance, advocacy, and comprehensive support to address the unique motor, non-motor, emotional, and logistical challenges of Parkinson's—especially during critical care transitions such as hospitalization, rehabilitation, or home recovery.

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This program emphasizes client-centered care, disease education, family support, and proactive planning to reduce crisis events and improve quality of life at every stage of the disease journey.

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Program Components

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1. Comprehensive Parkinson's Assessment

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We begin with a thorough evaluation to understand your unique situation and needs:

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• Assessment of motor symptoms (tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia, postural instability)

• Evaluation of non-motor symptoms (sleep disturbances, constipation, pain, fatigue)

• Review of medication routines and timing for optimal symptom control

• Cognitive status screening and functional capabilities

• Assessment of mobility, activities of daily living (ADLs), balance, swallowing, and speech

• Review of neurologist recommendations and individualized care goals

• Psychosocial evaluation to identify caregiver strain and support client wellness

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2. Home Safety & Environment Assessment

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Creating a safe, supportive home environment is essential for maintaining independence and preventing falls:

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• Comprehensive recommendations for fall prevention strategies

• Evaluation and recommendations for mobility aids and adaptive equipment

• Assessment of medication management systems (pill organizers, automated dispensers like Hero)

• Environmental modifications to address freezing episodes and improve nighttime safety

• Guidance on assistive technology and home modifications that support independence

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3. Hospitalization & Advocacy Support

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Hospitalization can be particularly challenging for individuals with Parkinson's disease. We provide:

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• Proactive planning for emergency or elective hospitalizations

• Critical advocacy to ensure medications are administered on the precise schedule required for Parkinson's management

• Direct communication with hospital teams to avoid contraindicated medications that can worsen symptoms

• Education of hospital staff on Parkinson's-specific needs and care requirements

• Comprehensive discharge planning and follow-up coordination for smooth transitions to home or rehabilitation facilities

• Presence and advocacy during hospital stays when family cannot be present

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4. Behavioral & Mood Support

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Non-motor symptoms can significantly impact quality of life. We address these through:

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• Screening for depression, anxiety, impulse control disorders, and hallucinations

• Collaboration with neurologists, psychiatrists, and mental health professionals

• Monitoring for medication-related side effects that may affect mood or behavior

• Emotional support for care partners coping with personality changes, role shifts, or relationship dynamics

• Strategies for managing behavioral symptoms and improving emotional well-being

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5. Care Coordination

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Navigating the healthcare system with Parkinson's requires expert coordination:

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• Team-based collaboration with neurologists, physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, and occupational therapists

• Appointment scheduling, attendance at medical visits, and comprehensive follow-up

• Communication of care team recommendations to family members and caregivers

• Assistance with insurance or Medicare benefits, including therapy authorization and equipment approvals

• Referrals to movement disorder specialists, Parkinson's Centers of Excellence, or research trials

• Coordination of in-home therapy services when appropriate

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6. Family Coaching & Education

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Knowledge is power when managing Parkinson's disease. We provide:

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• One-on-one coaching sessions to discuss disease changes, care goals, and future planning

• Education on disease progression, medication timing, "off" periods, and freezing episodes

• Training on effective care techniques, communication strategies, and behavioral management

• Guidance on nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle modifications that support symptom management

• Referrals to Parkinson's support groups and respite care resources

• Resources for care partners to maintain their own health and well-being

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7. Transition & Placement Planning (If Needed)

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When higher levels of care become necessary, we guide you through the process:

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• Expert guidance on timing and selection of assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing facilities

• Assistance in identifying communities with Parkinson's-trained staff and specialized programs

• Evaluation of facilities for fall prevention protocols and medication management capabilities

• Transition coordination to ensure continuity of care

• Family communication and support throughout the decision-making process

• Ongoing monitoring and advocacy after placement

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Ideal For

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The Parkinson's Disease Coach Approach™ is designed to support:

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• Individuals newly diagnosed with Parkinson's disease who need guidance navigating the healthcare system

• Clients experiencing care transitions between hospital, rehabilitation, and home settings

• Care partners feeling overwhelmed by complex coordination responsibilities

• Those with advanced Parkinson's experiencing cognitive changes or behavioral symptoms

• Individuals lacking a local advocate during hospitalization or medical visits

• Families seeking proactive planning to prevent crisis situations

• Anyone wanting to optimize their care team and maintain the highest possible quality of life

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How We Work

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We partner closely with your neurologist, primary care provider, and therapy team to ensure coordinated, comprehensive care. Our care managers understand the critical importance of medication timing, the nuanced progression of Parkinson's symptoms, and the need for trusted advocacy—especially during vulnerable moments when you're unable to speak for yourself.

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We recognize that Parkinson's disease affects each person differently, and we tailor our approach to your unique needs, preferences, and goals. Whether you need support during a health crisis, help navigating daily challenges, or guidance planning for the future, we walk alongside you every step of the way.

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Our commitment is to help you maintain independence, dignity, and the best possible quality of life throughout your Parkinson's journey. For more information call: 404-430-5307