Amador County's support group for Parkinson's disease sufferers has scheduled monthly presentations through April on fitness, nutrition and in-home care options.

The group, which meets the third Thursday of every month at the Calvary Chapel Patio Building, 18400 Ridge Road in Pine Grove from 9:30 a.m. to noon, welcomes patients, caregivers, family members and friends impacted by Parkinson's disease and other neurological disorders. Interested community members are invited to join in the advocacy, education and support. There is no cost to attend meetings and reservations are not needed.

On Thursday, Feb. 19, the group will explore a variety of safe, seated exercise programs available on videos and DVDs that can be used at home.

Thursday, March 19 will bring an educational presentation on health snacks by Suzanne Anderson, RD, a clinical dietitian at Sutter Amador Hospital in Jackson. Many Parkinson's patients experience a protein interference with their medications and need to avoid snacks that contain protein. Anderson will introduce the group to tasty alternatives that will not slow down medication assistance.

The April 16 meeting will explain in detail the services offered by United Home Care and United Personal Care Services, which serve seniors in Amador and Calaveras counties. Providing in-home health care by a professional agency may give the option of keeping a loved one at home longer.

For questions about Parkinson's disease or to schedule an educational talk for your group or organization, call Sarah Johnson at 296-2575. ProACTIVE Parkinson's Project information is online at www.proactiveparkinsons.org.