Education Programs

We believe that education is an important part of living life with PD and we have an education committee that is dedicated to bringing the best possible information to our community so that you can understand and live well with PD. Join us for one of our monthly PD Talks offered online and don't miss our Living Well with PD Educational Symposium in April. Scroll down for our upcoming talks ▽

DECEMBER 2025 PD TALKS

PD TALK: Fall Prevention and Assistive Devices for PD
DATE: Wednesday, December 17, 2025
TIME: 3:00 pm
PLACE: Zoom
PRESENTED BY: Dr. Megan Walsh, DPT, NCS, C/NDT, Clinical Assistant Professor at FGCU
RSVP by 3:00 pm on Monday, December 15, 2025
Join the Parkinson’s Association of SWFL for an informative PD Talk with Dr. Megan Walsh, DPT, NCS, C/NDT, Clinical Assistant Professor at FGCU. Dr. Walsh will discuss practical strategies to reduce fall risk, highlight common balance challenges faced by individuals living with Parkinson’s, and demonstrate how assistive devices can support safety, mobility, and confidence. This session is designed for people with Parkinson’s, care partners, and anyone looking to better understand proactive approaches to staying active and independent.

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JANUARY 2026 PD TALKS

PD TALK: PD-A Nutritional Perspective
DATE: Wednesday, January 7, 2026
TIME: 3:00 pm
PLACE: Zoom
PRESENTED BY: Barbara Maione, MS, RDN, LD/N
Clinical Nutrition Director, HCA West Florida Bay Market Region
RSVP by 3:00 pm on Monday, January 5, 2026
Join Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Barbara Maione for an informative discussion on how nutrition can support individuals living with Parkinson’s Disease. Barbara will explore practical dietary strategies, nutrient considerations, and ways to optimize wellness through food choices tailored to Parkinson’s-related challenges. Her expertise offers a valuable perspective on improving daily health and quality of life.

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PD TALK: Neuroplasticity & Exercise
DATE: Wednesday, January 14, 2026
TIME: 3:00 pm
PLACE: Zoom
PRESENTED BY: Mildred Octelus
RSVP by 3:00 pm on Monday, January 12, 2026
Join PASWFL Movement Instructor Mildred Octelus for an engaging discussion on how exercise can help the brain adapt, strengthen connections, and support better movement for people living with Parkinson’s disease. Mildred will share insights from studies showing how regular physical activity promotes neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to rewire and form new pathways—and how specific types of movement can improve balance, coordination, and overall well-being. Discover practical ways to make movement a powerful part of your Parkinson’s management plan.

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PD TALK: The Balanced Brain Blueprint
DATE: Wednesday, January 28, 2026
TIME: 3:00PM
PLACE: Zoom
Presenter: Michelle Vitelli, Geriatric Speech-Language Pathologist, Naples Speech and Cognitive Therapy

Join Michelle Vitelli for an informative session on The Balanced Brain Blueprint, where she will share practical tools to support speech, voice, cognitive function, and communication for individuals living with Parkinson’s Disease. With over 28 years of experience, Michelle specializes in stroke recovery, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s/dementia, and neurologic communication disorders. As a mobile and telehealth provider—and a certified LSVT LOUD and SPEAK OUT therapist—Michelle offers expert, patient-centered guidance to help you strengthen your voice, improve cognitive skills, and enhance daily communication.

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RECENT PD TALKS

TOPIC: Intro to Micrographia
DATE: Wednesday, July 9, 2025
TIME: 3:00 pm
PLACE: Zoom
PRESENTED BY: Physical Therapist Assistants, Alicia Artz co-owner with Jen Hedgepeth of “ Fite For Your Write”
RSVP by 3:00 pm on Monday, July 7, 2025
Click to Register
Have you noticed your handwriting getting smaller and more difficult to read?
Join Alicia and Jen as they introduce micrographia—a common symptom of Parkinson’s disease that causes a person’s handwriting to become smaller and more difficult to read over time.

Through their therapist-owned company, Fite For Your Write, they have developed a supportive method that uses writing as both a creative outlet and a therapeutic tool. Their program offers unique writing challenges that help individuals with Parkinson’s reconnect with self-expression, build confidence, and find empowerment through the act of writing.
This session will explore how writing can be both a way to better understand micrographia and a powerful tool in the journey of living well with PD.

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TOPIC: Little Talked About Symptoms of PD
DATE: Wednesday, July 16, 2025
TIME: 3:00 pm
PLACE: Zoom
PRESENTED BY: Rebecca Gilbert, MD, PhD
Chief Mission Officer at American Parkinson Disease Association
RSVP by Noon on July 14, 2025
Dr. Gilbert will explore the lesser-known, non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease, including: Depression and anxiety, Digestive issues (such as poor gastric motility), Temperature sensitivity, Vision problems, Excessive sweating, and more.
Dr. Gilbert received her MD at Weill Medical College of Cornell University and a PhD in Cell Biology and Genetics at the Weill Graduate School of Medical Sciences. She then completed her Neurology Residency and Movement Disorders Fellowship training at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center. Before joining APDA, she was an Associate Professor of Neurology at the Fresco Institute for Parkinson’s and Movement Disorders, NYU Langone Medical Center where she saw Movement disorders patients at both NYU and Bellevue Hospital Center, initiated and directed the NYU Movement Disorders Fellowship, participated in clinical trials and other research initiatives for Parkinson’s disease and lectured widely on Parkinson’s disease.

Rebecca Gilbert joined APDA in 2018, first as Chief Scientific Officer, and more recently as Chief Mission Officer. She plays a key role in developing APDA’s long-term mission strategy, oversees APDA’s research portfolio, and provides medical and clinical expertise to support APDA programming and educational content.

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Balance and PD

TOPIC: Balance and PD
DATE: Wednesday, June 11, 2025
TIME: 3:00 pm
PLACE: Zoom
PRESENTED BY: Chris R. Williams B.S., CPT, CES, SFS, YES
RSVP by 3:00 pm on Monday, June 9, 2025
Click to Register
Join Chris R. Williams B.S., CPT, CES, SFS, YES for this informative talk to learn how to enhance balance to help you live well with PD.

Chris Williams, Founder & President of Emeritus Health and author of Balance University, has over 22 years of experience as a fitness and wellness professional. Based in Naples, FL, Emeritus Health specializes in improving balance and movement for adults and is a Florida Blue Cross/Blue Shield-approved provider. Balance University is a 10-week program to enhance balance, posture, and flexibility. He also serves as the Owner & Lead Conditioning Coach for the Azzurri Storm Soccer Program. His passion for health and fitness began as a high school athlete, leading him to earn a degree in Nutrition & Dietetics and multiple certifications through the National Academy of Sports Medicine. He is a recognized educator who frequently contributes to wellness initiatives in Collier County businesses and academic institutions.

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Navigating Memory Changes in PD

TOPIC: Navigating Memory Changes in PD
DATE: Wednesday, May 14, 2025
TIME: 3:00 pm
PLACE: Zoom
PRESENTED BY: Judy Jenner, MS, CCC, Speech-Language Pathologist
RSVP by 3:00 pm on Monday, May 12, 2025
Learn about the cognitive challenges associated with Parkinson’s disease, common memory changes, strategies to manage them, and ways to support brain health. Whether you are living with PD, a caregiver, or simply want to learn more, this talk will provide valuable insights and practical tips.

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Making Every Word Count: Communication Strategies for Parkinson’s Care Partners

TOPIC: Making Every Word Count: Communication Strategies for Parkinson’s Care Partners
DATE: Wednesday, May 7, 2025
TIME: 3:00 pm
PLACE: Zoom
PRESENTED BY: Judy Jenner, MS, CCC, Speech-Language Pathologist
RSVP by 3:00 pm on Monday, May 5, 2025
Communication changes can be one of the most challenging aspects of Parkinson’s disease for both individuals with PD and their care partners. In this engaging session, Judy Jenner, MS, CCC-SLP, will provide practical strategies to improve communication, reduce frustration, and strengthen connections between care partners and their loved ones with PD.
This talk will cover:

How Parkinson’s affects speech and communication
Practical techniques to enhance daily conversations
Tips for reducing stress and improving understanding

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The Mediterranean Diet: Nourishing the Body and Mind

TOPIC: The Mediterranean Diet: Nourishing the Body and Mind
DATE: Wednesday, April 30, 2025
TIME: 3:00 pm
PLACE: Zoom
PRESENTED BY: Carolyn Bivens, RDN
RSVP by 3:00 pm on Monday, April 28, 2025
Join Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Carolyn Bivans for an informative session on the Mediterranean Diet, a brain-healthy lifestyle inspired by the traditional eating patterns of Greece, Italy, and Spain. This talk will explore the key components of this nutrient-rich diet and how it supports overall well-being, particularly for those living with Parkinson’s Disease. Learn how each meal can help nourish both the body and mind while providing essential health benefits. Gain practical tips on incorporating Mediterranean-style eating into daily life to promote better brain function, heart health, and overall vitality.

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Long-Term Care & Veterans Benefits: Key Estate Planning Strategies

TOPIC: Long-Term Care & Veterans Benefits: Key Estate Planning Strategies
DATE: Wednesday, April 9, 2025
TIME: 3:00 pm
PLACE: Zoom
PRESENTED BY: Colleen Bratkovich, Partner of Zacharia Brown Attorneys
RSVP by 3:00 pm on Monday, April 7, 2025
Click to Register
Join Colleen Bratkovich, Partner of Zacharia Brown Attorneys, as she explores essential strategies for securing long-term care and maximizing veterans' benefits. This presentation will cover critical legal and financial strategies to protect assets, ensure eligibility for key programs, and provide peace of mind for families navigating the complexities of aging and care planning.

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From Brain to Bladder: How Neurological Conditions Affect Urological Health

TOPIC: From Brain to Bladder: How Neurological Conditions Affect Urological Health
DATE: Thursday, March 27, 2025
TIME: 4:00 pm
PLACE: Zoom
PRESENTED BY: Rolando Rivera, MD, FACS
RSVP by 3:00 pm on Tuesday, March 25, 2025
Click to Register
Join us for an insightful PD Talk as Dr. Rolando Rivera, a board-certified urologist and fellowship-trained specialist, explores the connection between neurological conditions—like Parkinson’s disease—and urological health.

Rolando Rivera, MD, FACS is a dual board-certified Urologist in Naples, Florida who provides surgical and non-surgical solutions for both men and women. He is noted for his use of the very latest techniques and technology, including the use of neuromodulation therapy and DaVinci robotic surgery. This talk will explore the link between your urological health and Parkinson’s Disease.

Each month, we offer multiple educational presentations covering medical, health, and lifestyle topics to help you live well with Parkinson's Disease (PD). Our presenters are experts in their fields, including movement disorder specialists, neurologists, occupational and physical therapists, speech therapists, dietitians, home health professionals, financial planners, and more. Please note we are now offering both in-person and Zoom PD Talks.

PD TALK RECORDINGS

Did you know you can watch recordings of our past talks online?
We believe that education is an important part of living life with PD, that's why the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida offers a library of recordings of educational talks designed to help you live well with PD. Our videos range from information on PD 101, Mobility, Speech Therapy, Physical Therapy, Care Partners, Planning, PD Related Issues, Medication, and Treatment, to Symptom Management, and more. We also keep you updated on the most recent studies and research on treatment and symptom management with peer-reviewed studies. Click the buttons below to learn more.

SEE AVAILABLE VIDEOS

SEE RECENT STUDIES

While there is no charge to participate there are significants costs to offer our programs and services.
Participants are required to complete a membership application and participation waiver before participating in online and in person programs. Click below to complete the required application online.

For your convenience the membership application is available to complete online, or if you would prefer printed forms, you can download them and return them to us by mail. Are you unsure if you completed a waiver or membership form? Call us at 239-417-3465 and we will be delighted to check for you. CLICK TO JOIN