Summary: Parkinson's disease impacts over one million people living in the United States. People living in rural areas may not have easy access to movement disorder specialists. Limited access to resources makes this diagnosis more challenging. Rural healthcare providers and agricultural professionals can develop an awareness of this neurodegenerative disorder and understand the effects on agricultural work. Participants will learn about rural specific resources, safety screening for aspects of agricultural work, tips to maximize farmer functioning, and communication strategies with farm families.

Objectives: At the end of this presentation, learners will be able to...

• Understand the impact of aging on the farming workforce
• Translate relevant strategies when interacting with people living with Parkinson’s that work in agricultural production
• Understand why an in-home engagement is an important approach to consider for rural individuals with Parkinson disease
• Use evidenced-based screening tools to address safety and foster communication for individuals with movement disorders working in agriculture