Online meetings through Zoom platform are increasingly being embraced by various support groups for conducting their gatherings and discussions.
In a remarkable shift towards digital connectivity, Parkinson's NSW Support Groups have transitioned to regular meetings via the video-chat application, Zoom. Over 21 groups have now adopted this platform, making it an integral part of their community gatherings.
Laurelle from the Port Stephens (formerly Tomaree) Support Group was among the first to participate in a Zoom meeting, finding it easy to navigate. The initial Support Group Leader Zoom meeting attracted 29 Leadership Team members from 23 different Groups, setting a precedent for this new way of connecting.
A bi-weekly Support Group Leader Zoom meeting is now facilitated by Felicity Jones, providing a platform for coordinators to share experiences and learn from each other. For those who may be unfamiliar with the technology, Felicity offers guidance as they familiarize themselves with Zoom.
Some people who were initially reluctant to adopt this technology have found it easy and have started to enjoy using Zoom for meetings. In fact, some groups are setting fun themes for each of their Zoom meetings, such as wearing funny hats or all dressing in a particular color, adding a touch of joy to these virtual gatherings.
The digital shift has also extended to Carers, with a regular Carers Zoom meeting now connecting people from across NSW. Zoom also provides opportunities to link in guests from other organizations who can present and converse with all participants.
Representatives of the Council of the Ageing (COTA) and Carers NSW have joined recent Zoom meetings, further strengthening the connections within the Parkinson's community.
If you are interested in setting up Zoom meetings for Support Group participants, Carers, or Leadership Teams, contact Felicity Jones at [email protected] or call 8051 1900 for assistance. Zoom can be used on any computer or smartphone, making it accessible for all.
Support groups, recognizing the potential of technology, have integrated science-based platforms like Zoom into their health-and-wellness routines, fostering mental health discussions more broadly and across regions. As a testament to this, fun themes during Zoom meetings have transformed these virtual gatherings into unique health-and-wellness experiences that cultivate a sense of unity despite physical distancing.
