Every year on April 11th, the world comes together to raise awareness about Parkinson’s disease—a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, coordination, and overall quality of life. World Parkinson’s Day 2025 is an important opportunity to highlight the role of healthcare professionals, including dietitians at ORS, in supporting individuals with Parkinson’s.
The Role of ORS Dietitians in Parkinson’s Disease Management
A well-balanced diet plays a crucial role in managing Parkinson’s symptoms, supporting brain health, and improving overall well-being. This is where dietetics comes in. But what is dietetics? It is the science of nutrition and how food affects health, with ORS dietitians being the experts in providing tailored nutritional support for various health conditions, including Parkinson’s disease.
How ORS Dietitians Help People with Parkinson’s Disease
At ORS, our NDIS dietitians specialise in supporting individuals with Parkinson’s by:
- Managing Medication Interactions: Certain Parkinson’s medications, like levodopa, can be affected by protein intake. A dietitian can help adjust meal timing and composition to enhance medication effectiveness.
- Addressing Swallowing Difficulties: Many individuals with Parkinson’s experience dysphagia (difficulty swallowing). A dietitian assessment can identify dietary modifications to improve safety and nutrition intake.
- Preventing Malnutrition and Weight Loss: Parkinson’s can lead to reduced appetite and unintentional weight loss. A dietitian can create meal plans that are nutrient-dense and easy to consume.
- Improving Gut Health: Constipation is a common issue in Parkinson’s. We recommend fibre-rich foods and hydration strategies to support digestive health.
Accessing Dietetics Support for Parkinson’s Disease
Many people wonder: Is a dietitian funded by the NDIS? The answer is yes!
Under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), individuals with Parkinson’s disease may be eligible for dietetic services through ORS. This falls under NDIS Capacity Building: Improved Daily Living and Improved Health and Well-being, which includes nutrition and dietetics in disability care. A dietetics referral from a healthcare provider can also help individuals access these crucial services.
ORS also offers dietitian telehealth services, making it easier for individuals with Parkinson’s to receive support from the comfort of their homes. Through telehealth, clients can have virtual consultations, receive personalised dietary recommendations, and access ongoing support without the need for travel.
Raising Awareness: Dietitian Week 2025 Australia
As we observe World Parkinson’s Day 2025, it’s also a great time to acknowledge the work of dietitians through Dietitian Week 2025 Australia. These events celebrate the impact of dietitians in healthcare and encourage more people to seek professional nutritional support.
Conclusion
On World Parkinson’s Day 2025, let’s recognise the critical role of dietitians in supporting individuals with Parkinson’s. Whether through in-person dietetics services, dietitian telehealth, or NDIS-funded dietitian support, our professionals make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by the disease.
If you or a loved one is living with Parkinson’s, consider reaching out to ORS via phone 1800 000 677 or enquire now for a dietetics assessment to explore how nutrition can support better health outcomes. Together, with awareness and the right support, we can enhance the quality of life for those impacted by Parkinson’s disease.
