The Clinic Social Worker provides information, counselling and referrals to help patients and family members understand, adjust and manage the emotional, social and practical concerns that may arise as a result of Parkinson’s disease.
Issues may include:
-
Referrals/Information may include:
-
financial (pension, disability pensions, Pharmacare)
-
Health unit for home support
-
Facility care
-
Legal (power of attorney, representation agreement)
-
Housing options
-
Handydart, meals on wheels, lifeline, handicap parking
-
Respite care
-
Education to patient/family:
-
Parkinson’s Disease education
-
Stress, anxiety, and coping strategies
-
Reading material
-
Useful internet sources
-
Impact of illness on the patient’s work, family and lifestyle
-
Loss of independence and grief
-
Changes in life plan and role changes
-
Decision making
-
Communication challenges
-
Impulse control issues
-
Caregiver stress and burnout
-
Advanced care planning
As this is not an inclusive list, you are welcome to contact the social worker 
in the clinic for more information.
Elaine Book, M.S.W.
604-822-7527
604-822-7527