Fight Parkinsons is a noted leader in information, advice, and services for people living with Parkinson’s Disease, and are innovating in this space once again with the launch of ‘The Community Hub’: an online platform designed to make knowledge, strategies and skills easily accessible to those living with the disease and their carers.
The Hub, which was developed with proud assistance from Telematics Trust in the form of a $50,000 grant and launched in 2023, is a holistic initiative that combines comprehensive learning courses with FAQs and factsheets, as well as practical tools like a digital doctors appointment checklist. All of this is housed in an online and free-to-access environment – a first for Australia.
Unique challenges
Parkinson’s Disease, a complex chronic condition that manifests in non-motor and motor symptoms, presents unique challenges to the diverse population that lives with it. Symptoms such as the inability to multitask, chronic fatigue, communication difficulties and movement limitations can impact an individual’s desire or capacity to gain new skills and access important health information.
These issues were undoubtedly intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic, as many people with Parkinson’s limited their access to vital health and social services needed to manage their progression or diagnosis. As with all chronic conditions, being able to continuously access this knowledge and these skills is key to ensuring people living with Parkinson’s and their carers lead empowered lives.
Removing barriers to skills and knowledge
By making The Community Hub free of charge, Fight Parkinson’s has ensured that those who need the information, advice and tools provided face no cost-barrier in doing so. Telematics Trust is especially excited by Fight Parkinson’s use of cutting edge online LMS and e-Learning technologies, resulting in a groundbreaking Recently Diagnosed course and monthly online seminar, amongst other features. By using technology in this way, Fight Parkinson’s has overcome potential engagement problems such as socioeconomic status, physical ability or location, and can continually update the Community Hub’s content to ensure it stays factual and up to date.
When asked to reflect on the project, Emma Collin, Chief executive Office of Fight Parkinson’s, said:
"Thanks to the support of the Telematics Trust, Fight Parkinson’s has established Australia’s first open-source Parkinson’s online educational platform, the Community Hub, dedicated to ensuring equitable access to knowledge and resources for our community. This platform has supported people living with Parkinson’s to better understand their health, with 75% of participants in the Recently Diagnosed Course rating it 4.3 out of 5 stars. The Community Hub not only enhances understanding and management of the condition but also strengthens Fight Parkinson’s commitment to accessible learning, with seven additional courses already available to support the Parkinson’s community. Thank you, Telematics Trust, for allowing us to diversify our support service offerings with a community first approach."
Towards a Vision
The Community Hub represents a new and inspiring development for Fight Parkinson’s, who have over 40 years of experience in improving the quality of life and wellbeing of the 219,000 people in Australia who live with Parkinson's. Telematics Trust is delighted to have partnered with such a reputable organisation as Fight Parkisnons’s, and helped their vision: Of living with Parkinson’s being empowered and able to live full and active lives.
To explore The Community Hub, as well as further services, advocacy and information, check out Fight Parkinson’s site here.
