Extra Dosage | Peace of mind: Insights from a neuropsychologist

This is a special bonus episode of When Life Gives You Parkinson’s which we are calling “Extra Dosage.” Full episodes will be release every other Wednesday. In between, Niki and I will share new information, original interviews and extra material that provide more context to topics raised in the previous episodes of the podcast. We’ll also answer your questions. Feel free to write us with questions at parkinsonspod@curiouscast.ca.

Parkinson’s doesn’t necessarily lead to cognitive impairment, but it can. The threat alone though makes think that every time I forget a word, have trouble with complex issues or can’t complete my Sudoku that I might be leaking brain power. Likely, I’m just freaking myself out. However, for peace of mind, there are ways to monitor and test cognitive function. I know in one my less grounded moments of perceived cognition erosion, my neurologist ran me through a battery of memory exercises. I checked out fine.

Additionally, there neuropsychologists who work with neurologists to help evaluate cognitive abilities. Dr. Robert Duff, host of the Hard Core Self Help podcast, is a neuropsychologist who works with Parkinson’s patients on a regular basis. In this Extra Dosage, Dr. Duff and I speak candidly about Parkinson’s possible impact on the brain, mental health issues with Parkinson’s, what people can expect if going through a battery of neuropsych tests, and what he’s learned about PD after treating hundreds of patients. Additionally, he explains why it might be beneficial for everyone with Parkinson’s to take up a new hobby.

If you have a comment or question about the podcast, you can email us: parkinsonspod@curiouscast.ca

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Twitter: @Niki_Reitmayer

Special thanks to Dr. Robert Duff from The Hardcore Self Help Podcast

Website: https://www.duffthepsych.com

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For more info on our partner Parkinson Canada head to http://www.parkinson.ca/

The toll free hotline 1-800-565-3000

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Parkinson Canada @ParkinsonCanada

Parkinson Society BC @ParkinsonsBC

Credits

Dila Velazquez – Story Producer

Rob Johnston – Senior Audio Producer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices