April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month

It is estimated the 6.3 million people suffer from Parkinson’s disease (PD) worldwide. In the United States, about 1.5 million Americans have PD. A disease affecting millions and often requiring long-term care, it is diagnosed in many people before they reach age 50. The Parkinson’s Disease Foundation has dedicated April to raising awareness of this debilitating, degenerative disease.

“The moment I understood this…that my Parkinson's was the one thing I wasn't going to change, I started looking at the things I could change, like the way research is funded,” said actor Michael J. Fox, who has the disease.

The Light of Day Foundation will match contributions up to $100,000 made to the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation through April 30.

You can show your support for those who suffer from PD by hosting a walk, decorating your facility with tulips, displaying the Parkinson’s quilt  or taking time to honor a resident with Parkinson’s.

Sandra Hoban

Sandra Hoban was on I Advance Senior Care / Long-Term Living’s editorial staff for 17 years. She is one of the country’s longest-serving senior care journalists. Before joining Long-Term Living, she was a member of the promotions department at Advanstar Communications. In addition to her editorial experience, Sandi has served past roles in print and broadcast advertising as a traffic and talent coordinator.