Struthers Parkinson’s Care Network
Bethesda is proud to be a partner in the Struthers Parkinson’s Care Network to provide better Parkinson’s care and awareness in the Willmar area. Our staff member, Jill Baker has been trained as a Site Champion and has brought her knowledge back to our community and to our Bethesda staff. Every single Bethesda staff member, from CNAs to Dietary, Maintenance to Administration, receives the TULIPS (Time, Understanding, Quality of Life, Increase Awareness, Pills on Time and Support) training when they begin employment here at Bethesda. This helps to create awareness from all staff toward residents and visitors who are dealing with Parkinson’s.
Further education is given to nursing staff on an on-going basis on areas of caring for those with Parkinson’s disease such as dressing, eating, transferring and ambulation as well as medication review and nursing considerations for management of the disease. The LSVT BIG and LOUD therapy programs are also offered at Bethesda.
Parkinson’s disease occurs when cells in the brain degenerate, causing symptoms of slowness, tremor, muscle stiffness and changes in posture and balance. Each person with Parkinson’s is different. Other symptoms may impact mood, communication, walking and thinking/memory. Treatment includes medications, surgery, rehab and other complementary therapies. Most people with Parkinson’s take medication to help control symptoms, which may fluctuate throughout the day. Parkinson’s has no cure. It is important to receive pills on time every time for best symptom management.
Bethesda provides a monthly support group for those dealing with Parkinson’s disease and their loved ones. It is held the second Wednesday of each month at 10:00am in the Pleasant View in-service room. For more information, please contact Jill Baker at 320-214-5669 or [email protected]. Club Bethesda also offers a PWR! (Parkinson’s Wellness Recovery) Exercise class on Monday mornings from 9:15 to 9:45pm. For more information, contact Melissa Wentzel at 320-214-5622 or [email protected].
Click here to view the Struthers Parkinson’s Care Network Video.
