KUCHING: The Kuching Parkinson’s Society (KPS) recently organised a Members Day at Chemsain, Rock Road here, offering people with Parkinson’s disease, their caregivers and volunteers a day filled with free services and support.
Approximately 100 attendees, including individuals with Parkinson’s, their families and supporters, participated in the three-hour event.
Services provided included massages, manicures, pedicures, haircuts and basic health checks. KPS also set up a ‘one-stop shop’ to help members access resources and services like Kenyalang Gold Card and OKU card applications.
Organising committee member Jean Voon said the event was a special opportunity for members to enjoy care services and social activities that they might not easily access.
“Parkinson’s Disease is an isolating illness, and those affected often become socially withdrawn due to depression, social stigma, or mobility challenges,” she said, adding that caregivers face similar isolation.
To address the mental health needs of both patients and caregivers, KPS also invited the Mental Health Association Sarawak and Dee Hati Centre for Grief, Bereavement and Trauma to participate.
Other activities included a sit-down Zumba session, a nutrition talk, and a panel discussion featuring neurosurgeon Dr Lim Swee San, physiotherapist Chua Ying Ying and speech therapist Sue Walker.
Dr Lim highlighted the importance of early detection and intervention while Chua and Walker shared insights into LSVT BIG and LSVT LOUD therapy programmes, which help improve movement and speech in Parkinson’s patients.
KPS currently offers subsidies for LSVT BIG and plans to extend subsidies for LSVT LOUD soon.
Founded in 2015, KPS supports individuals with Parkinson’s, their caregivers, families, volunteers and anyone interested in the cause. Membership is open to the public.
