Don't forget: we're encouraging folks to try Chair Yoga in February for free! Try a class on February 2, 16 or 23rd--just for fun. You might find you like it a lot (and don't worry; while we ask for a $10/month contribution to offset the costs of the classes, we have full scholarships available for the asking). Call Katherine at 502-426-0888 or 502-314-8307 to register for Freebie February Yoga! Classes are on Tuesdays at noon in Crescent Hill.

We had a great question last week from someone wanting to know how to get a medical ID bracelet on-line.

One site we found is American Medical ID. This site offers "classic" medical alert bracelets and necklaces. Another site, Stay Safe Jewelry, offers particularly attractive bracelets that are non-traditional in design, but still offer the needed medical info.

An engraved medical ID bracelet or necklace presents a concise overview of your conditions, allergies and medicines. Informing medical personnel about your unique medical conditions and needs will greatly aid pre-hospital care.

It's a good idea to carry information about your medical condition with you when you're out and about. We have free wallet cards, specific to Parkinson's disease available at the office, just drop Katherine a note and she'll send you a couple. We also recently tested and reviewed these handy wallet Medical Information Cards. The card allows you to carry medical information with you at all times, and the convenient USB card with self-contained software allows it to be accessed by medical professionals in an emergency.If you decide to buy one, use discount code PSCKY at check-out and the retailer will donate $5 to PSCKY's programs and services.

PSCKY is now on Facebook! Please "become a fan." Thanks to everyone who's joined up so far! We now have over 110 "fans"...and we welcome your pictures, posts and conversations on our Facebook site. If you have trouble joining through the link above, try the one from our website!

Now here's a headline that should grab your attention: "Reducing dosage of Parkinson's drugs can cause symptoms similar to those of cocaine withdrawal." Bottom line: People lowering or stopping dopamine agonists (such as pramipexole (Mirapex) or ropinirole (Requip)) should be be aware that they are at risk for withdrawal symptoms and should reduce dose or stop these meds under close supervision from their doctor.

Dry mouth is not just an irritating symptom of PD; people with Parkinson's are at risk of poor dental health and oral hygiene. Learn more here! And, a recent study also pointed to an increased risk of PD in people with a history of strokes (as well as an increased risk for strokes in people with PD). (Our thanks to Karen deGraaf for that second link!)

Move It or Lose It!:

• WHO: Anyone with Parkinson's disease or essential tremor interested in improving mobility, posture, balance & gait. Spouses & support partners also welcome!
• WHAT: Weekly mobility program combining elements of yoga, dance & Pilates, taught by certified instructor
Amy Robinson
• WHEN: Thursdays, 9-10am. YOU CAN JOIN AT ANY TIME!
• WHERE: Norton Audubon Hospital, Joint Care Gym 6th floor, main hospital (1 Audubon Plaza Dr, 40217)
• COST: FREE! This program made possible by a 2010 Partnership Grant from PSCKY.
  
• TO REGISTER: Katherine Autin support@pscky.org
• MORE INFO: Zorre' Kimura: 502.636.7260

The Legal Aid Society is offering free legal clinic on foreclosure, divorce, bankruptcy and more during January & February. For more info & dates, call 502-584-1254 or visit their website!

A mayoral candidate forum will be held Thursday, January 28 from 6-8pm at the Metro United Way Building. Attendees will be able to meet, greet, and get to know the candidates.

Street Count Volunteers Needed: Every year the Coalition for the Homeless conducts a "street count" to compile a census of people who are living on the street. On Thursday, January 28, 2010, 6p.m.-8p.m., they will be doing the Street Count again. We will need lots of volunteers, even if it is just for an hour. They need people to help on the streets, to be inside to distribute clothing and sleeping bags, people to "direct traffic" inside the shelter, etc. Please reply to Susanne Binford, Seven Counties Project Coordinator, Mental Health Outreach at sbinford@sevencounties.org to sign up or for further information.

Stages of Senior Care: You're invited on Wednesday, February 3rd from 5-7pm to the University of Louisville's Shelby Campus to hear Paul Hogan discuss his latest book, "Stages of Senior Care: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Best Decisions." Paul is the Home Instead Senior Care Co-Founder & CEO. RSVP to 502-515-9515 or online here. The first 100 guests will receive a complimentary copy of the book. Hors d'oeurves and refreshments will be provided. Ample, FREE parking.

Parenting the Parent: Navigating Medicare & Medicaid Coverage will be discussed on Tuesday, February 9th from 6-8pm at the Marshall Women's Health & Education Center at Norton Suburban Medical Plaza III, Ste 108. Becky Beanblossom, owner of Home Instead Senior Care, will address senior care issues and the role Medicare and Medicaid may play in decision making. Call 502-629-1234 to register for this free event!

Come listen, ask questions and learn about dementia at Nazareth Home (2000 Newburg Rd). On Tuesday, February 16th from 5:30-6:30pm, Dr. Jane Cornett will speak on "Palliative Care & Dementia Patients." Please RSVP to Gretchen at 502-473-2396.