INNOVATION
Improving quality of life for people with Parkinson ’ s disease
People in Merri-bek who are living with Parkinson ’ s and their carers can now get support through our Parkinson ’ s Disease Group .
It is the only group of its kind in the North , North-Eastern , and Western metro regions of Melbourne that spans private , public and community health sectors .
An estimated four in 1,000 people ( or one in 100 people aged 65 +) live with Parkinson ’ s disease in Australia .
All-in-one support for people living with diabetes
An estimated one in 20 people in Merri-bek live with diabetes .
Merri Health has launched its new one-of-a-kind Diabetes Clinic at our Bell Street site for people over 18 living with Type 2 diabetes .
The ‘ all-in-one ’ clinic provides people with the opportunity to see a Dietician , Diabetes Nurse Educator and Exercise Physiologist all in the one appointment .
It aims to provide tailored education and link people with the most appropriate care and is a part of our Diabetes Prevention initiative . Last year , we ran a series of ‘ Preventing Diabetes education sessions ’ which had great success :
87.5 % of participants said they better understand how to reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes
77 % of participants said they better understand the risks of type 2 diabetes
87.5 % of participants agreed the session was a positive step towards a healthier lifestyle
The new clinic is open and runs once a month . It is designed for people who are newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes , or who are living with type 2 diabetes and have not had the chance to learn more about their condition .
We will be measuring participants ’ health outcomes at 6 and 12 months , to monitor and evaluate the clinic ’ s impact .
The clinic includes specialist sessions with a range of health professionals working together to support common challenges from Parkinson ’ s disease , such as communication , mobility , swallowing , nutrition , foot complaints , and independence .
It aims to support community members with Parkinson ’ s to better manage their condition , improve quality of life , and connect with others who also live with Parkinson ’ s . Participants tell us the group is beneficial and informative , and that they ’ re enjoying the social connection .
MerriNews March - April 2024 | 5 .