Actress Holly Robinson Peete Hosts Academy's First Patient Education Video

Newswise — Hollywood actress Holly Robinson Peete is the spokesperson for the AAN's first patient education video, which focuses on Parkinson's disease. The video, Parkinson's Disease: A Guide for Patients Families, was distributed at the Annual Meeting in Seattle to members to share with patients in their practices.

The video is a guide for patients who are newly diagnosed and for their families to help them understand the symptoms and treatments of the disease, as well as empower them to make decisions about their care. The video comes as a bundled DVD with guidebook and provides a list of resources for patients and their families. In addition to Robinson Peete, the video features three Academy members: former AAN President Stanley Fahn, MD, FAAN , J. William Langston, MD, and Kathleen M. Shannon, MD.

"We're very excited to bring this engaging type of format to patients," said Fahn, who also served as a consultant on the video's production. "Often patients and their loved ones can be overwhelmed by a diagnosis. Written materials are effective in detailing information, but the DVD can inform families in a more approachable manner and help them feel more comfortable in learning about the disease."

The DVD covers topics including when to see a neurologist, what types of medications can be prescribed, an overview of deep brain stimulation treatment, and tips for living daily with Parkinson's. The video also features a segment aimed at caregivers.

"Perhaps the key to the whole puzzle of living with Parkinson's lies in one's support structure," said Fahn. "Without family, friends, or other caregivers, the disease is arguably much more difficult to manage. It was essential for us to focus on the 'whole picture' when it comes to adapting to the disease's progression—including caregivers was an easy decision."

Robinson Peete, who is accustomed to the power of television, appeared in the cast of 21 Jump Street and Hangin' With Mister Cooper. She followed in the footsteps of her father Matt Robinson, whose most recognizable TV role was that of the original Gordon character on Sesame Street. Robinson's career as an advocate for Parkinson's patients began after her father was diagnosed with the disease in the 1980s, cutting short his career in television. He died from complications in 2002. Robinson Peete remains active in her advocacy efforts through a private foundation and as an author. "ƒParkinson's Video Airs LocallyIn addition to being available to members, the video will air in several local markets. Dates and airtimes are subject to change. Check your local listings for details."¢ Miami " WTVJ, Channel 6 (NBC) at 2:00 p.m., June 13 "¢ St. Louis " KDNL, Channel 30 (ABC) at 11:00 a.m., June 14 "¢ Washington, DC " WJLA, Channel 7 (ABC) at 11:30 a.m., June 20 "¢ Atlanta " WGCL , Channel 46 (CBS) at 12:30 p.m., June 21"¢ San Francisco " KPIX , Channel 5 (CBS) at 11:30 a.m., June 27

The American Academy of Neurology Foundation helps people with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, autism, headache, stroke, and hundreds of other neurologic disorders. Visit www.thebrainmatters.org to learn more about patient education materials available in a range of neurologic disorders.

The American Academy of Neurology, an association of more than 21,000 neurologists and neuroscience professionals, is dedicated to promoting the highest quality patient-centered neurologic care. A neurologist is a doctor with specialized training in diagnosing, treating and managing disorders of the brain and nervous system such as multiple sclerosis, restless legs syndrome, Alzheimer's disease, narcolepsy, and stroke. For more information, visit www.aan.com.