Parkinson’s Western Australia Annual Report 2010/2011

24

Parkinson’s Western Australia Annual Report 2010/2011

Parkinson’s Western Australia

Centre for Neurological Support

The Niche, Suite B

11 Aberdare Road, Nedlands

WA 6009

[email protected]

www.parkinsonswa.org.au

www.facebook.com/ParkinsonsWA

www.twitter.com/ParkinsonsWA

www.youtube.com/ParkinsonsWA


Parkinson’s

Western

Australia

Inc.

Annual Report

2010

2011


1,629

230 �

followers on

Social Networking

Sites.

59

5

number of

people who

have attended

our Seminars

in the past

year. current combined patient load for

our Parkinson’s Nurse Specialists.

18 support Groups

helping people

with Parkinson’s

and their families

across WA.

55

3

new

referrals to

the Nurse

Specialist

Service.

education

sessions

given by

our Nurse

Specialists.

15% increase in

donations to

Parkinson’s

Western Australia.

896 home visits made

by our Nurse

Specialist Service.

people took

part in our

inaugural

Unity Walk

2010. 65

0

2,361 Current active

members of

Parkinson’s

Western Australia.

3,000 delegates from around the

world networked with partners

at the Second World Parkinson’s

Congress, Glasgow 2010.

The year in numbers 6

4

54

%

increase

in income

from grants

and

sponsorship

since 2009/10.

2,793 current active members

of Parkinson’s

Western Australia. 23


Educational Resources

Resource Description

Manuals

Eat Well, Stay Well with Parkinson’s Disease

(2005)

A nutrition handbook for people with Parkinson’s.

Guidelines for Nursing Practice in Caring for People with

Parkinson’s Disease (2007)

A rapid reference for nurses caring for people with

Parkinson’s.

Guidelines for Physiotherapy Practice in Caring for

People with Parkinson’s Disease (2007)

A rapid reference for physiotherapists treating

people with Parkinson’s.

Parkinson’s Disease: A General Practice Approach

(2008)

A diagnostic and treatment resource for general

practitioners.

Parkinson’s Services, Strategies and Strengths

(June 2009)

A Practical guide for young people with Parkinson’s.

The following lists educational resources produced

by Parkinson’s Western Australia

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22


Educational Resources Educational Resources

Resource Description

DL Brochures

Parkinson’s Disease and Driving

(December 2008)

Outlines driving regulations for people with

Parkinson’s.

Parkinson’s Disease and Hospitalisation Guidelines

(January 2010)

Outlines planning and preparing for a hospital

visit for people with Parkinson’s.

Medications Used in the Treatment of

Parkinson’s Disease

(June 2010)

Outlines medications used in the treatment of

Parkinson’s.

Parkinson’s: The Condition and Services

(July 2010)

Explains what Parkinson’s is and what Parkinson’s

Western Australia does.

Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease

(January 2011)

A guide for people diagnosed with Parkinson’s

between the ages of 21-40.

Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist Service

(February 2011)

Explains the Nurse Specialist service and how it

works.

What is a Support Group?

(March 2011)

Explains the dynamic of our support groups and

outlines how to join.

Parkinson’s Disease and Communication

(May 2011)

Explains the affects of Parkinson’s on communication

and provides treatment options.

Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist Service:

Information for Health Professionals

(May 2011)

Outlines the Nurse Specialist service for health

professionals.

C5 Booklets

The Carer: Living with Parkinson’s

(June 2009)

Information for carers and family of people living

with Parkinson’s.

Medications to be used with caution for

People with Parkinson’s Disease

(July 2011)

Outlines drug interactions and medications that

can worsen the symptoms of Parkinson’s.

Medications to be given with caution to people

with Parkinson’s Disease

(July 2011)

For health professionals

The following lists educational resources produced

by Parkinson’s Western Australia

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3


Contents

Who we are

Our vision

Our mission

Our history

What we do

Board of management

Professional advisory panel

Parkinson’s Western Australia Staff

A word from our patron

President’s annual report

Parkinson’s nurse specialist report

The year in pictures

Support groups report

Research committee report

Seminar and education report

Sponsors and donors

Financial report

Educational resources

1

1

1

1

1

2

2

3

4

5

7

9

11

12

13

14

15

19

Our Proud Major Sponsors

ii

4


Who we are

Our vision

A nation without Parkinson’s.

Our mission

To encourage, and where appropriate, develop and implement programs for the cure,

treatment and care of people with Parkinson's.

Our history

Incorporated in 1984, Parkinson’s Western Australia Inc. provides a Parkinson’s Nurse

Specialist Service; Support Networks for people with Parkinson’s and their family carers; and

educational resources and training. It is estimated that there are some 8,000 people living with

Parkinson’s in Western Australia.

What we do

Parkinson’s Western Australia provides a nurse specialist service covering the Western

Australian metropolitan area who make home visits and assist patients in the management of

the condition. This innovative free service is the first of its kind in Australia and is funded by

the Department of Health Western Australia.

The nurse specialist service also provides support

and education to allied health professionals, with

the aim of ensuring informed care.

Parkinson’s Western Australia provides regular

therapeutical activities for people with Parkinson’s

including singing, yoga and art therapy.

Parkinson’s Western Australia has 19 support groups

throughout Western Australia, all led by volunteers.

Parkinson’s Western Australia run several seminars

every year, tailored to suit people in all stages of

their journey with Parkinson’s, and we also hold

specific seminars just for carers.

Parkinson’s Western Australia provides a wide range

of Parkinson’s-specific educational resources.

1

21


1,629

The year in numbers

190 �

followers on

Social Networking

Sites.

59

5

54

%

increase

in income

from grants

and

sponsorship

since 2009/10.

Number of

people who

have attended

our Seminars

in the past

year. Current combined patient load for

our Parkinson’s Nurse Specialists.

18 Support Groups

helping people

with Parkinson’s

and their families

across WA.

55

3

New

referrals to

the Nurse

Specialist

Service.

64

Education sessions

given by

our Nurse

Specialists.

15% increase in

donations to

Parkinson’s

Western Australia.

896 Home visits made

by our Nurse

Specialist Service.

3,000 delegates from around the

world networked with partners

at the Second World Parkinson’s

Congress.

People took

part in our

inaugural

Unity Walk

2010. 65

0

2,361 Current active

members of

Parkinson’s

Western Australia.

18 18

“I discovered a passion for Art that I

didn’t know I had, and this gave me

great joy” John Yukich, Park Art attendee.

20


Financial Report

Parkinson’s Western Australia Inc.

Statement of Financial Position as at 30 June 2011

Current Assets Notes 2011 ($) Restated 2010 ($)

Cash assets 2 1,036,340 1,092,746

Inventories 4 14,343 15,340

Prepayments 11,589 8,434

Total current assets 1,062,272 1,116,520

Non-current assets

Property, plant and equipment 5 51,747 22,234

Total non-current assets 51,747 22,234

Total assets 1,114,019 1,138,754

Current liabilities

Payables 6 26,088 52,061

Provisions 2 and 7 88,145 78,138

Total current liabilities 114,233 130,199

Total liabilities 114,233 130,199

Net assets 999,786 1,008,555

Equity

Retained profits 2, 7 and 8 999,786 1,008,555

Total equity 999,786 1,008,555

The above statement of financial performance should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes

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5


Board of Management

Back row: Ross Guyton; Geoff Pride (Treasurer); Peggy Habib; John McDonald

(President); Geoff Sansom (Secretary). Front Row: Roseanne Thomas; Peter Willmott;

Dr Natalie Gasson (Vice President) Absent: Steven Heath, Wendy Jacobsen

• Consultant Neurologist • Psychologist • Pharmaceutical Advisor

Professor Frank Mastaglia Dr Natalie Gasson Ms Oksana Burford

• Consultant Geriatrician • Optometrist • Dietician

Dr Barry Vieira Ms Liz Wason Ms Linley Boulden

• Speech Pathologist • Dentist • Clinical Nurse/Coordinator

Ms Caroline Silver Ms Marianne Pinto Ms Janice Guy

• Senior Physiotherapist and

Special Projects Coordinator

Ms Tracy Ticehurst

• Occupational Therapist

Vacant

• Consultant Neurosurgeon

Professor Chris Lind

Who we are 2

Professional Advisory Panel

6


Who we are

Left to Right: Jenny Taylor (Parkinson's Nurse Specialist - East);

Janet McLeod (Parkinson's Nurse Specialist - North);

Jo Chadwick (Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist - South)

Left to Right: Brenda Matthews (Executive Officer); Lucy Reader (Client Services/

Community Engagement); Kathleen Yip (Fundraising & Marketing); Claudia Wells

(Finance & Administration); Angela Sideris (Office Manager); Kym Auret (Accountant)

Absent: Dawn Mathieson (PNS Secretarial Support)

Parkinson’s Western Australia Staff

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Financial Report


Statement of Financial Performance for the year ended 30 June 2011

Income Notes 2011 ($) Restated 2010 ($)

Books, videos and other merchandise 14,530 17,606

Donations and bequests 172,534 149,775

Educational and rural sessions 2,817 2,738

Fundraising and events 136,067 67,040

Grants and sponsorships 408,897 264,937

Interest 53,053 44,859

Membership income 26,502 27,099

Newsletter advertising - 300

Research donations - 4,280

Seminars 3,097 3,597

Total income 817,497 582,231

Expenditure

Parkinson’s Australia Secretariat 12,520 15,608

Accounting, auditing and bank charges 19,364 11,721

Awareness 160 253

Conferences 4,073 3,055

Depreciation 7,157 6,730

Employee entitlements 2 and 7 181,689 180,571

Fundraising expenses 38,049 21,042

Fundraising Officer 61,776 21,097

Insurance 2,870 2,971

Library resources 514 469

Membership levies 964 492

Merchandise for sale 15,303 17,844

Closing inventory - decrease 997 11,923

Newsletter 2,329 942

Nurse program 2 and 7 388,758 368,940

Advertising and promotion 10,053 13,720

Office expenses 5,644 801

Photocopying 4,718 2,641

Marketing consultants 219 -

Postage 11,023 9,753

Rent and parking 14,066 13,127

Research - 7,000

Seminars 6,274 17,972

Speakers and support groups 4,178 4,856

Staff recruitment 195 503

Stationery 10,283 8,393

Superannuation 15,903 14,137

Telephone, teleconference and website 1,462 5,475

Volunteer expenses 2,515 1,397

Workers’ compensation insurance 3,210 3,034

Total expenditure 2 and 7 826,266 766,467

Net profit/(loss) before abnormal item (8,769) (184,236)

Opening retained profits 1,008,555 1,192,791

Closing retained profits 2 and 7 999,786 1,008,555

The above statement of financial performance should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes

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Financial Report


Statement by Members of the Committee

The Committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special

purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note

1 to the financial statements.

In the opinion of the Committee the financial report:

1. Presents fairly the financial position of Parkinson’s Western Australia Inc. as at 30 June 2011 and its

performance for the year ended on that date.

2. At the date of this statement, there are reasonable grounds to believe that Parkinson’s Western

Australia Inc. will be able to pay its debts as and when they fall due.

This statement is made in accordance with a resolution of the Committee and is signed for and on behalf

of the Committee by:

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7


I am extremely proud to have once again been associated with the tremendous

commitment and achievement of all involved in Parkinson’s Western Australia. The

organisation operates through a positive and successful mix of staff and volunteers, all

with seemingly boundless energy to assist and support people with Parkinson’s, their

families and carers.

Volunteers offer their time and skills free of charge. The organisation can not operate without them, and I express my

personal thanks to each of them for keeping Parkinson’s Western Australia moving forward.

Parkinson’s Western Australia has welcomed a well-deserved and much needed funding increase. The State

Government has acknowledged the incredible work undertaken by all not-for-profit service providers such as

Parkinson’s Western Australia, and has granted an increase in funding. This increase will finally enable Parkinson’s

Western Australia to move towards a more equitable pay level for our hard-working staff.

This has been the first full year our three Parkinson’s Nurse Specialists have been funded by the Department of Health

Western Australia. The nurses’ services have been invaluable and I express my thanks to the State Government for

this commitment to the Parkinson’s community.

Demand cannot be met by our three existing specialist nurses, so Parkinson’s Western Australia will look to employ a

fourth nurse in the coming months. This additional nurse will help meet increased demand in the metropolitan area,

as well as support people with Parkinson’s and family carers in regional Western Australia.

Further acknowledgement of the great work of Parkinson’s Western Australia came this year through the recognition

of the Movement Disorders Parkinson’s Nurse Faculty by the Royal College of Nursing Australia. I am pleased and

proud that the dedication and work of our nurse specialists have been formally recognised in this manner.

I congratulate Parkinson’s Western Australia on being a major contributor to the development of Parkinson’s-specific

educational resources for the benefit of the Western Australia Parkinson’s community and Parkinson’s communities

throughout Australia.

Another positive step has been the expansion of therapy services to include singing and yoga, in addition to art.

I am proud to be involved with Parkinson’s Western Australia. It is a great pleasure to be involved in an organisation

where staff and volunteers work together with such commitment to their cause.

I look forward to continuing my relationship with you and wish each one of you the very best for the next financial

year.

Dr Janet Woollard MP

Patron Parkinson’s Western Australia

Dr Janet Woollard, MLA

A Word from our Patron 4

8


President’s Annual Report

The nurse specialist service is one of Parkinson’s Western Australia’s principal activities. It

is a highly valued support resource for people with Parkinson’s, their families and carers,

and it is respected amongst all health professionals connected with the care of people

with Parkinson’s. The service we operate is regarded as the ideal model for community

based care and is the envy of our counterparts in other states.

2010-2011 was the first year the Department of Health Western Australia provided funds to support a third nurse.

Funding prior to this came from Parkinson’s Western Australia and although the level of funding in 2010-2011 still

did not meet the full cost of the service, this extra funding support, together with the generosity of our supporters,

certainly eased demands on our resources.

Importantly, the state government has recently recognised the important role non-government organisations

(NGO’s) such as ours play in the community, and with effect from 1 July 2011 have increased contract payments for

selected NGO’s by 15% with a further 10% to be added next year. This now means from 1 July 2011 the nursing

service is fully funded by the state government and their continued support is, I am sure, greatly appreciated by all.

As I have reported previously, our strategy has always been to have, as a minimum, four nurses serving the greater

metropolitan area. I foreshadowed last year the possibility that, in the absence of government funding, Parkinson’s

Western Australia may once more consider funding a fourth nurse for up to two years to again demonstrate this

obvious need to the government. The Board of Management is now actively considering this, although now with a

view to splitting the role between the metropolitan and rural areas, particularly those country areas not already

serviced by the neurological nurses.

Parkinson’s Western Australia has continued to facilitate a wide range of programs to enhance the wellbeing of

people with Parkinson’s. The yoga classes have continued, with teacher Barbara Bowra, as too have the Park Art

classes conducted by Jackie Lewis. Thanks to them both and to the Neurological Council of WA for their funding

support of Park Art. Two exhibitions were held in the Niche displaying the artistic talents of painters Yvonne Sinclair

and Andrew Trunkfield; and the patchwork quilting skills of Sonja Songhurst.

Singing classes were started early in 2011 enabled by a grant from the Marion Flack Trust. These have become very

popular and offer therapeutical benefits and enjoyment. The singing teacher, Jackie Ewers, is doing a marvellous job

developing the talents of the group.

A wide-ranging seminar program was again offered during the year. The Newly Diagnosed seminar was presented a

record three times and was widely promoted on radio and in the press. These seminars are very popular and many

thanks go to all the presenters. Two of the Parkinson’s nurses attended the World Parkinson’s Congress in Glasgow,

Scotland. This enabled them to keep abreast of new developments in treatment and care, and expand their

knowledge and understanding of the complexities of Parkinson’s.

The financial state of your organisation remains sound and a small operating surplus was achieved against a

budgeted deficit. Although our operating costs increased by about 11%, our income was up on last year by

approximately 40%. A surplus is budgeted for this current year, but this will change if we proceed with employment

of a fourth nurse.

Benefits from the appointment last year of a fundraising officer started to be seen during the year. Record

responses were achieved from the Mother’s Day raffle, and the annual Street Appeal. The inaugural

Parkinson’s Unity Walk raised a better than expected $65,000 and attracted over 600 walkers.

John McDonald President

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Sponsors and Donors

The provision of quality care to people with Parkinson’s and support for their family carers is provided because

of the generous support of individuals, businesses and community groups. A special thank you to all our donors

for their care and support throughout the year.

The following community groups, individuals and businesses have contributed by sponsoring the

production of a range of services offered by Parkinson’s Western Australia:

The following community groups and businesses have made generous donations to support the work

of the Association:

Thank you to all the Parkinson’s Support Groups and their leaders who have assisted tirelessly in raising funds for the

Association.

Grants to support specific projects were received from

Department of Health WA - Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist Service

Carers WA - Carers Short Break

Neurological Council of WA - Park Art

Lotterywest - Office Refit

Adinfern Wines Curtin FM Karri Springs Water Rotary Club of Matilda Bay

Aleph Moving Images Dorsogna Lee Saunders Sail and Anchor Fremantle

Andrew Trunkfield Dr Janet Woollard MLA Medtronic Snap Printing Subiaco

Atrium Hotel Mandurah Dynamic Condition Midleaf Pty Ltd South of Perth Yacht Club

Barbara Bowra Esplanade Hotel Fremantle Minter Ellison Lawyers St. John’s Ambulance

Boehringer Ingelheim Farm Weekly Moss Street Parkinson’s Clinic ICCWA Stay on your Feet

Brian Hunt Federal Department Health and Ageing Nicole Davis - Fizzy Red Supa IGA Wembley

Café 2 U Flying Edits - Jan Knight Notre Dame University System Pty Ltd

Cappuccino Xpress Fronteir Group Novartis Pharmaceuticals Tanya Larson

Carers WA Have a Go News Osborne Park Hospital - PD clinic Town of Cambridge

Coles Supermarket Subiaco IGA Broadway Nedlands ParkC Centre Trident Insurance Group

Community Newspaper Group Independent Living Centre Pinelli Wines

Country Women’s Association Jackie Ewers Post Newspapers

Crowne Plaza Hotel Adelaide Jackie Lewis Quality Resort Sorrento Beach

Albany Support Group KD Johns Swick Resources

All things Special Gift Shop Kingsley Support Group The Galvin Family Foundation

Blue Sky Health Care Morley Support Group The Marian & EH Flack Trust

Buckley Caring Centre Peach Trust Fund The McCusker Foundation

City of Joondalup - Workplace Giving Pickering Brook Ladies Bowls The Stan Perron Charitable Foundation

Compressed Air Repairs & Equipment Postie Fashions Pty Ltd United Way West - Workplace Giving

Department of the Premier & Cabinet - Staff Pub Jive & Rock ‘n’ Roll Wasarians Inc.

Dianella Rangers Square Dance Club Pumphrey’s CWA Wesfarmers

Fremantle Support Group Qantas Help Fund Westnet Pty Ltd

Geraldton Support Group Rotary Club of Booragoon Westpac Group - Matching Gifts

Inner Wheel Club of Gosnells S & M Henderson WJ & MS Hughes Foundation

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Newly Diagnosed

(2 September 2010)

Janet McLeod - Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist spoke

on Parkinson’s treatment options and coming to

terms with the diagnosis of Parkinson’s. This

Seminar was aimed at people diagnosed with

Parkinson’s within the past five years, as well as

their family and friends.

Cognitive Issues and Stress

(16 October 2010)

Dr Carmela Pestell, Clinical Psychologist and

Clinical Neuropsychologist discussed cognition

changes that may occur in Parkinson’s.

Postcards from Scotland - Report from

the World Parkinson’s Congress

(6 November 2010)

Janet McLeod - Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist

presented information from the Second World

Parkinson’s Congress, which she and Jo Chadwick

attended in September 2010.

Newly Diagnosed

(21 February 2011)

Parkinson’s Western Australia run several ‘Newly

Diagnosed’ Seminars throughout the year to meet

popular demand.

Mobility and Parkinson’s

(16 April 2011)

Tanya Larsen, Physiotherapist, spoke about

mobility issues in Parkinson’s. Jackie Ewers, leader

of our singing therapy class, gave a short

presentation on the benefits of singing therapy for

people with Parkinson’s, and an update on the

progress of the Parkinson’s Western Australia

Singing with Parkinson’s group.

Carer’s Workshop

(26 May 2011)

Jane McKinley from Carers WA spoke about the

services offered by Carers WA, and how they can

help carers of people with Parkinson’s. Janet

McLeod spoke on relationships, communication,

body image, apathy and amotivation. Volunteers

gave head, shoulder and hand massages to carers.

Newly Diagnosed

(23 June 2011)

Seminar DVDs

Parkinson’s Western Australia is committed to

filming all seminars throughout the year (only one

Newly Diagnosed seminar is filmed). These seminar

DVDs are distributed to our support groups and are

made available in our library for people to borrow.

A huge thank you to the Rotary Club of Booragoon

who fund the production of these DVDs.

Seminar and Education Report 13

9


President’s Annual Report

A major refit of the Parkinson’s Western Australia office at the Niche was implemented thanks to support from

Lotterywest. This now offers an improved, albeit cosy, working environment.

A survey of members was mailed in February 2011 to obtain feedback on the work of Parkinson’s Western Australia

and to elicit thoughts on areas for improvement. A summary of these findings will be made available early 2012,

and will feature in future newsletters and on our website. These findings will be considered when doing our

strategic planning.

Volunteers play an important part in Parkinson’s Western Australia’s activities and two in particular were recognised

for their contributions. Dennis Ford, long-standing leader of the Albany Support Group, was made an Honorary Life

Member. Dennis played an important role in getting a neurological nurse based in Albany. Di Libby was selected as

Volunteer of the Year, recognising her important work with the Kingsley Support Group. Congratulations to them

both, and many thanks to all our volunteers for their valuable contributions during the year.

Support groups play an important role in improving the wellbeing of participants and the success of these groups is

very dependent on the enthusiasm and efforts of the group leaders. Peggy Habib, our Volunteer Support Group

Coordinator, expands on this in her Support Group Report on page 11. I must mention again the great work done

by Karen Rowland, leader of the Western Suburbs Support Group, last year’s Volunteer of the Year and who was

nominated Parkinson’s Western Australia’s Ambassador in January 2011. Karen regularly speaks, with great passion,

to a wide variety of audiences including university, medical and health professional students, service organisations,

and anyone else who will listen to her personal Parkinson’s journey.

Thank you again to both Lee Saunders for his continuing advice on fundraising strategies and to lawyer, Lee Rosetto

of Minter Ellison Lawyers, for their pro-bono support. Many thanks also to our Patron, Janet Woollard MLA, for her

continued input and support. Members of our Professional Advisory Panel, when called upon, give generously of

their time and expertise and this is greatly appreciated.

My thanks to my colleagues on the Board of Management for their valuable contributions during the year, and to

Peggy Habib, the Volunteer Support Group Coordinator and Vice President Dr Natalie Gasson who chairs the

Research Committee. Both have separate reports on pages 11 and 12 respectively. Thanks in particular to Stephen

Heath for his work on the constitution, Ross Guyton for his work on our strategic planning and Treasurer, Geoff

Pride for his work with the budget and accounting functions. A special word of thanks to Secretary Geoff Sansom

and long serving Board member Peter Willmott, both of whom are retiring.

The smooth operation of your association would not be possible without our dedicated, hard working staff who are

ably led by Executive Officer, Brenda Matthews. Their contribution is greatly appreciated by the Board and all who

come into contact with them. Again, the work done amongst people with Parkinson’s, their carers and health

professionals by the three nurse specialists: Janet McLeod; Jo Chadwick and Jenny Taylor deserves particular thanks.

The dedication, empathy and professionalism they display is valued by all.

Support has continued for the national body, Parkinson’s Australia. This peak body’s role is largely to lobby and

advocate at a national level on behalf of people affected with Parkinson’s, particularly to the Australian government.

It continues to financially support the successful online General Practitioner’s Guide to Parkinson’s Disease and has

recently commissioned a review and update of the 2006 Access Economics study on Parkinson’s. The budgeted cost

of this Canberra-based office is approximately $220,000 for 2011/2012. State member organisations contribute

about 50% of this cost proportionately, on a population basis.

John McDonald

President Parkinson’s Western Australia

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Parkinson’ s Nurse Specialist Report

Jenny Taylor R.N.

Janet McLeod R.N. Cert. Gerontology B.N. MNurs.

Jo Chadwick R.N. Dip PD

The Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist Service continues to provide

informed nursing support to people living with Parkinson’s

(those diagnosed with the condition, family members and

health professionals). For the year reported, the role was

funded by the Department of Health Western Australia. The catchment areas are defined geographically - Janet

McLeod is responsible for north of the river, Jo Chadwick for south of the river and Jenny Taylor for the eastern

suburbs.

The task of annual updating and reviewing of statistics continues and is now factored into our yearly calendar. This

has proved to be a beneficial exercise, which results in greater accuracy of numbers and provides a quantitative basis

for lobbying for additional funding.

The following is an overview of the activities of the nurse specialists during 2010-2011 over and above the routine

patient activity and education sessions quantified later in the report:

July 2010:

Jenny attended a national Parkinson’s nurses’ meeting hosted by Hospira in Sydney. Jenny conducted a two day visit to

Northam visiting patients and carrying out education for health professionals.

August 2010:

Janet and Jo attended the inaugural face- to-face meeting of Movement Disorder and Parkinson’s Nurses Faculty (MDPNF),

Royal College of Nursing, Canberra. The MDPNF was officially launched that evening in the presence of Governor General,

Quentin Bryce. Janet presented at a Post Graduate Physiotherapist Course at University of Western Australia and an

Australian Neuroscience Nurses Association meeting held at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital. Jo presented to the Social Work

Department at Fremantle Hospital on PWA and the PNS role.

September 2010:

Janet and Jo attended the 2nd World Parkinson’s Congress in Glasgow, Scotland.

October 2010:

Jenny conducted a two day visit to Northam visiting patients and carrying out education for health professionals. Janet

conducted an education session for massage students at TAFE, Central. Janet and Jo presented Postcards from Glasgow to

a Perth nurses’ meeting funded by Novartis. Jo presented on Travel and Parkinson’s to the Young Onset Support Group.

November 2010:

Jenny and Jo attended a Novartis nurses’ meeting in Melbourne where Jo presented feedback from The World Congress

attended in Glasgow. Janet attended a workshop in Melbourne on Parkinson’s funded by Lundbeck Institute. Roger Barker

(United Kingdom) presented at several meetings in Perth, which were attended by all nurses. Janet presented at a

Parkinson’s seminar at Osborne Park Hospital.

December 2010:

Student placement continued. The six monthly report for the Department of Health Western Australia was

prepared. Edith Cowan University nursing students on placement.

January 2011:

As in previous years we dedicate the first two weeks to “housekeeping”- updating current patient status and

spring cleaning the office.

February 2011:

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This year has proved to be somewhat difficult for the research committee; we have lost

another member of the team. I would like to thank Gaye Hargreaves for her

contributions to the group. We are sad to see her go but understand that work must

take priority. We would like to ask once again for anyone who is interested in research

to come and join our group. We meet informally four times per year. The bulk of the

‘work’ we ask you to do is reading applications for assistance (either for recruiting

participants for studies, or for funding). You do not need any special skills – only an interest in research relating to

Parkinson’s.

We have also recruited a new academic to the research committee, however, as she has not formally accepted our

invitation yet, I will not reveal her name!

The Speech Pathology & Swallowing edition of our manuals in Best Practice has progressed this year. The group has

met a few times to look at the direction they will take with the manual. We will not be rushing however, as the

speech pathologists involved are donating their time for free and we are grateful for that. As a reminder, this

manual will add to our two previous Best Practice manuals (Nursing and Physiotherapy).

Ongoing projects we have continued to support during 2011 include:

• A randomised control trial of cognitive behavioural therapy for the treatment of anxiety and depression in

Parkinson’s (Treuong, Gasson & Egan; Curtin University). This trial commenced in the middle of 2010 and will be

continuing into 2012.

• Cognitive and motor homogeneity in idiopathic Parkinson’s (Meghan Thomas and the ParkC team; Edith Cowan

University, Vario Health Institute).

New projects we are supporting in 2011 and beyond include:

• The impact of sleep fragmentation and hypoxia on executive function, memory, and health-related quality of life

in Parkinson’s (Loftus, Bucks, Kroczek, and Thomas; University of WA & ParkC).

• Understanding the emotions of others: A study of emotion perception in Parkinson’s (Marneweck, Hammond, &

Loftus; University of WA).

• Expiratory muscle strength training in moderate to severe Parkinson’s: effects on swallow, cough, voice, and

speech function (Ng, Langdon, Cartwright, & Hennessey; SCGH & Curtin University).

I would like to take the opportunity to thank Parkinson’s Western Australia members who take the time to

participate in the research projects we advertise and fund. Each project that takes place advances knowledge in the

area of Parkinson’s. While not every project has direct benefits to the people who participate, I think participating

has the great advantage of encouraging researchers to look at Parkinson’s-related issues and in a general sense,

raises awareness of Parkinson’s in the community. If we can help researchers then we are ultimately helping

ourselves!

Dr Natalie Gasson

Vice President/Chair of Research Committee

Dr Natalie Gasson Vice President, Chair of Research Committee

Research Committee Report 12

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Support Groups Report

In the last twelve months I have visited many of our support groups in person, which has

brought home how large an area Parkinson’s Western Australia covers. All our support

groups are led by a voluntary group leader; much time and effort is given by them to

ensure their group offers the social networking and emotional support needed for

members. I, on behalf of Parkinson’s Western Australia, wish to thank them for their

dedication and commitment to the role and to the members for their support.

The Annual Support Group Leaders luncheon in February went really well. This was an

opportunity for leaders to exchange ideas and to meet the nurses who updated us with

the latest information in Parkinson’s.

I travelled to Esperance in July to meet Marion Mitchell, who has set up a support group

there. I would like to express our thanks to Marion for taking on this role with real

enthusiasm. We wish the Esperance Support Group every success in the future.

After five and a half years Lorraine Flannegan has stepped down as leader of the

Bunbury Support Group. We would like to thank Lorraine for her dedication and wish her

every success in the future. Betty McCleary has taken over from Lorraine and is enjoying

leading the group.

Thanks also to Vivienne Baldwin for her leadership of the Rockingham Support Group

over many years. This group has now disbanded, but we are hoping to get it running

again in the near future.

Laurie Vicary has agreed to lead the Bullcreek Support Group, and meetings have been

well attended. I wish Laurie every success with the group.

We thoroughly appreciate the efforts of support groups in fundraising initiatives this

year. Key events to note include a fashion parade organised by Morley Support Group,

Lyn Navendorn, who donated money in lieu of 60th birthday presents, and the annual

street appeal.

The Carers Short Breaks have been well attended and we continue to receive positive

feedback from attendees.

Thanks to Brenda and the administration staff who are always very helpful and ready to

listen. I look forward to the next twelve months and to meeting more members.

Peggy Habib

Volunteer Support Group Coordinator

Support Groups

Albany

Armadale

Bridgetown

Bullcreek/Leeming

Bunbury

Collie

Esperance

Fremantle/Melville

Geraldton

Glen Forrest/

Mundaring

Kingsley

Lesmurdie/

Kalamunda

Mandurah

Morley

Narrogin

Northam

Western Suburbs

Young Onset

Peggy Habib Volunteer Support Group Coordinator

11

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Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist Report

Janet enrolled at Edith Cowan University – Post Graduate Certificate in Counselling Skills. This two semester part-time

course is funded and supported by PWA. Newly Diagnosed Seminar was facilitated by Janet. Jenny and Janet

addressed the Volunteer/Staff Training session. Jo attended the Bullcreek Support Group.

March 2011:

Jo presented to health professionals at Rockingham Hospital. Jenny observed Deep Brain Stimulation procedure at Sir

Charles Gairdner Hospital. Jo conducted a three day visit to Narrogin conducting education sessions for health

professionals and people with Parkinson’s, attending the support group there. Jo presented to Certificate III students at

Beaconsfield TAFE.

April 2011:

PNS on annual leave

May 2011:

University of Notre Dame nursing students on placement for three weeks. Jo presented to the Young Onset Support Group on

medication and diet. Jenny conducted a two day visit to Goomalling, Northam and York visiting patients and carrying out

education for health professionals. Jenny and Jo hosted first year medical students from University of Western Australia.

June 2011:

Jo spoke at the Booragoon Rotary Club on Parkinson’s Western Australia and the Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist role. Jenny

carried out a full day education session at Wanneroo Nursing home. Jo presented an education session at Royal Perth

Hospital, Neuroscience Nursing Course. Jo and Jenny presented at the Newly Diagnosed Seminar. Jo attended the Lundbeck

Institute, Parkinson’s Workshop for Health Professionals in Melbourne.

The above calendar outlines highlights of the year reported. It is vital to remember that these events are in addition to

the routine activities of our role. During this year we have continued to facilitate educational sessions at various aged

care facilities, hospitals and support groups.

Janet continues to be a member of the Research Committee (Parkinson's Western Australia Inc.) and attends ParkC

Scientific Steering Committee as a representative of Parkinson's Western Australia Inc.

All nurses continue to attend meetings at North Metropolitan Parkinson’s clinic, Osborne Park Hospital and South

Metropolitan Parkinson’s clinic, Moss Street, Fremantle – this adds to the linkages with our colleagues working in the

field of Parkinson’s. The ultimate benefit is to our patients as there is liaison between our community-based service

and the hospital-based teams.

The nurses continue to be members of the following associations:

ANNA – Australian Neuroscience Nurses Association

EPDA – European Parkinson's Disease Association

EPNN – European Parkinson’s Nurses Network

RCNA – Royal College of Nursing Australia

MDSA – Movement Disorder Society of Australia

MDPNF – Movement Disorders and Parkinson’s Nurses Faculty

CN3 – Community Neurological Nurses Network

Publications

Parkinson’s Information Sheets: - Incontinence and Parkinson’s. Glossary of Terms

Brochures:

Young Onset Parkinson’s, Parkinson’s and Communication, Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist Service: Information for Health

Professionals

The following statistics outline the activities of Parkinson's Nurse Specialist for 2010-2011:

Referrals: 553� Home visits: 896� Hospital visits: 23� Nursing home visits: 222� Office consultations: 10

Education sessions: 64� Current combined patient load: 1629

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12


The year in pictures 9

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The year in pictures 10

Parkinson’s Western Australia Annual Report 2010/2011

Documents

Transcript of Parkinson’s Western Australia Annual Report 2010/2011