Top of Mind: Empowering Those affected by movement and memory disorders

Most people can say that they know someone who has struggled with a memory disorder, like Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, or movement disorder, like Parkinson’s disease.

“A growing number of individuals are impacted by Alzheimer’s disease, related dementia, Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders,” said Kathy Tuckey, patient educator and outreach coordinator for Augusta University Movement and Memory Disorder Center of Excellence. “The diseases are often age-related, so as the baby boomers age, we’re seeing a larger number of people who are affected.”

Gaining Education in Order to Give Support

Augusta University Movement and Memory Disorder Center of Excellence works to educate consumers and patients, family and professional caregivers, and allied health care professionals on treatment options and the latest research.

“We look forward to offering an in-depth focus on neurodegenerative diseases and helping individuals navigate through the challenges associated with having a chronic disease,” Tuckey said. “A person living with a chronic disease looks for ways they can have purpose. Part of that purpose may include participating in clinical trials and research. We want attendees to leave with knowledge of the life-changing innovations we have right here, as well as new ideas, a strategy, hope and understanding that they’re not alone.”

Tuckey speaks from a wealth of both personal and professional experience.

“I’ve walked this path both personally and professionally,” Tuckey said, “so I really see the need for programs like this and the amazing things being done here.”

In addition to working in the field of movement and memory disorders, her mother-in-law and aunt suffered from Alzheimer’s disease and father-in-law suffered from Parkinson’s disease.

“When someone is diagnosed with a memory or movement disorder, it doesn’t affect only that person,” said Tuckey. “It impacts their entire network. This symposium not only offers a venue for all to hear the same message together, but it also allows us to gain a better understanding of what it’s like to live with this disease. We’re removing the stigma of having a memory or movement disorder so people can feel empowered to reach out for help.”

Augusta University Neurosciences Center of Excellent offers an annual Brain Health Symposium!

To learn more, visit augustahealth.org/adpd-symposium, or call 877-540-9897. You can also contact them by emailing brainhealth@augusta.edu.

To make an appointment and learn about our services and providers, call us at 706-721-4581 or visit augustahealth.org/neuro.