These information seminars are presented onsite and are delivered in an easy to understand and interactive format.

The Parkinson’s Queensland Inc. information seminars are an ideal forum for individuals with various levels of understanding and experience in the area of Parkinson’s disease to enhance their current knowledge base.

All seminars include:

• A general introduction to Parkinson’s disease, including motor and non-motor symptoms, cause, diagnosis, treatment options and current surgeries available
• Medication management and side-effects
• Practical strategies used by Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, Speech Pathologists etc. to address concerns such as getting out of bed, improving mobility, help with ‘freezing’, speech and swallowing
• A brief overview of the services of Parkinson’s Queensland Inc.
• Information about community and government services commonly accessed by people living with Parkinson’s disease

Each seminar typically runs for approximately 1 hour.  In addition, each seminar includes Parkinson’s disease resources and comprehensive handouts.

Please be aware that we are currently only able to offer these services in the South East corner of Queensland and charges apply.

Please contact PQI on 1800 664 189 or email Tanya Turner-Jones .

The PQI PhD Research Grant Scheme funds high quality applications from current full-time PhD students who are undertaking innovative research projects related to Parkinson’s disease. Funding will be available for the duration of the applicant’s candidature – up to a maximum of three years.
Grants of up to $10,000 each will be awarded.

The PQI Research Seeding Grant Scheme funds high quality applications from Queensland based researchers or teams of researchers to undertake innovative research projects related to Parkinson’s disease.
Funding will be available for one year, after which successful applicants will be required to apply to external funding agencies for further funding support. The value of the Research Seeding Grants will be up to a maximum value of $30,000. Applicants will be required to provide matching funds, with at least 20% cash contribution.

Closing date for applications: Friday, 30th September 2011

Seeding Grant Guidelines

Seeding Grant Application Form

Seeding Grant Application Form (Word Version)

PhD Project Guidelines

PhD Project Application Form

PhD Project Application Form (Word Version)

Queensland Aged & Disability Advocacy

Alzheimer’s Australia

Synapse (Brain Injury Association of Queensland)

Diversicare

LifeTec Queensland

Queensland Meals on Wheels

Multiple Sclerosis Queensland

Parkinson’s Australia

Parkinson’s NSW

Parkinson’s VIC

Parkinson’s WA

Parkinson’s SA

Parkinson’s ACT

Parkinson’s TAS

The primary aim of the Parkinson’s Queensland Inc. Seeding Grant Scheme is to support individual researchers and research teams to conduct high quality research into Parkinson’s disease. This includes both basic and applied science research.  In 2011 PQI awarded funding to qualified researchers for innovative research projects related to Parkinson’s disease.  In total, four grants were granted; 1 PhD Grants and 3 Research Seeding Grants.

Cognitive difficulties can have a significant impact on people with Parkinson’s disease (PD).   Anthony Angwin

This research aims to increase understanding of cognitive difficulties in people with PD who have mild cognitive impairment (MCI) compared to people with PD who do not have MCI. We will use brain imaging techniques and measures of brain activity while people perform computerized cognitive tasks to identify the brain mechanisms associated with cognitive difficulty and how it is influenced by MCI. The data obtained will be important for increasing current understanding of the nature of cognitive difficulties in PD, and may lead to the development of improved predictors of cognitive decline and improved management of cognitive difficulties.

Treatment of dysarthria in Parkinson’s disease using repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation. Prof Bruce Murdoch

The proposed project will utilise an exciting new technique called transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to restore articulatory function and speech intelligibility in a group of individuals diagnosed with PD. It is hypothesised that the use of non-invasive repetitive TMS applied to the tongue region of the cerebral cortex will restore cortical excitability in this region leading to improvements in articulatory function and speech intelligibility. The proposed research project has the potential to revolutionise the treatment of speech impairment associated with PD leading to improved communication abilities and consequent improvement in the quality of life of individuals with PD.

Transcranial direct current stimulation is a safe, painless and cutting-edge form of non-invasive brain stimulation. This new technique is being trialled in a number of neurological conditions and demonstrates early promise as an adjunct therapy to improve function. Here we aim to investigate the effect of transcranial direct current stimulation coupled with gait training on gait disturbances, bradykinesia, learning and function in individuals with Parkinson’s disease.

Malnutrition in Parkinson’s disease and an individualised approach to its management.   Jamie Sheard

Unintentional weight loss and undernutrition (malnutrition) has been identified as an issue in people with Parkinson’s disease. However, the extent of this problem is not yet understood. Therefore, this project aims to determine the percentage of people with Parkinson’s disease who are still living in their homes who are malnourished. In addition, the risk factors for undernutrition in people with Parkinson’s disease will also be examined. For those who were identified as being malnourished, the project will aim to assist with improving their nutrition and at the same time evaluate the effectiveness of the approach used.

Functional neuroimaging of prefrontal cortex activation using near-infrared spectroscopy: establishing Dovel biomarkers of cognitive function and fal ls risk in Parkinson’s.  Graham Kerr

The proposed project will utilise functional near-infrared imaging to determine how prefrontal cortex activation is affected in Parkinson’s patients during the performance of cognitive tests while seated, standing and walking. Differences in prefrontal cortex act ivation, cognitive performance, balance and gait will be determined between Parkinson’s patients and control participants and between fallers and non-fallers.

Outcomes of this research will determine the relationship between prefrontal cortex activation, cognitive dysfunction, posture and gait instability, and falls risk.

Please call 1800 644 189 (toll free).

See the Support Group page for details of our many regional and metropolitan Support Groups

General information about Parkinson’s disease and related issues is available through our Info line which is staffed by an Information Officer and volunteers. Your call can remain anonymous if you prefer and our support staff are well equipped to provide information about any aspect of Parkinson’s disease.

Please call 1800 644 189(toll free) or email pqi@parkinsons-qld.org.au.

See the Office and Staff page for other contact information

See the Support Group page for details of our many regional and metropolitan Support Groups

A support group is an informal gathering of people who share similar experiences, situations or problems. One of Parkinson’s Queensland’s most valuable and popular services is the development and coordination of a network of some 43 Parkinson’s support groups throughout metropolitan and regional Queensland.

Parkinson’s support group members can offer each other emotional and practical support. Getting together with other people who are facing similar challenges allows everyone to share feelings, resources and experiences. As well as providing benefits from the exchange of practical information, support groups also provide motivation and inspiration to help you deal positively with the changes to your lifestyle. They also give you a chance to meet new people, which help to break down any feelings of isolation associated with the disease.

Support group meetings range from group discussions, to educational sessions by guest speakers, social outings or just sharing a cuppa. To join a group please select your nearest group and contact number below for further details.

• Toll Free information Line 1800 644 189
• Specialist Library Service providing books, journal articles,  DVD’s and videos
• Information Kits
• Quarterly Newsletter
• web site www.parkinsons-qld.org.au

Support

Over 20 Support Groups throughout Queensland provide friendship, mutual support and information. Meetings may include practical tips and advice, group discussions, social outings and education sessions from health professionals.

Education

• Seminars for Recently Diagnosed
• Education sessions on symptom management
• Resources for Carers and Families
• In service education workshops provided to health professionals in accommodation facilities, respite, and health services to improve their understanding of Parkinson’s and caring for people with Parkinson’s

Advocacy

As the peak state-wide agency, we represent the needs and interests of people with Parkinson’s to all levels of government, seeking improved funding for services, research and awareness. We are also represented on the national peak body, Parkinson’s Australia, and network as a member of peak neurological service organizations in Australia.

Referral

We provide information and advice on accessible services, provided where possible in your local community, and relevant to your specific needs

Awareness

Improving the communities understanding of Parkinson’s is a priority. We regularly promote Parkinson’s awareness via the media and through fundraising initiatives, particularly during Parkinson’s Awareness Week and International Parkinson’s Day.