These are some ideas that have worked in meetings of Polio Outreach of Spokane. Maybe you can use some, adapt some or let some spark an even better idea!
Also check for ideas by seeing current meeting topics on our P.O.S. page.
Watch the video Bouncing Back Without Guilt, by Wendy Cline, Psychologist.
A pharmacist discussed different types of drugs that doctors may prescribe for people with post-polio. We need to be aware of potential benefits and hazards of drugs that are available.
A speaker with a doctorate in Educational Psychology led a workshop on assertive communication techniques.
A discussion about different ways we have found to cope with pain.
A dietitian spoke and offered practical suggestions on how we can better control our weight by eating properly. Lower body weight greatly reduces the work load on weakened muscles.
A general discussion about the causes of post-polio syndrome. This would be a great meeting to invite friends or family members to.
A pulmonary specialist talked about possible respiratory problems of persons who have had polio.
A representative from CORD, the Coalition of Responsible Disabled, discussed the Americans with Disabilities Act……
President of the Inland Massage and Body Workers Association brought several of her fellow massage therapists to talk to us about the benefits of massage therapy. They demonstrating different techniques on volunteers. Before another meeting, they taught a 2-hr. couples’ massage class.
A medical supply company representative shared about scooters, wheelchairs, and lifts, etc.
A physical therapist very knowledgeable about post-polio syndrome discussed our original polio and how it affected nerves and muscles and then talked about post-polio symptoms. At another meeting his topic was proper body positioning for efficient movement.
The owner of a van adaptation company spoke about large-scale mobility products. His company manufactures and installs van lifts, stairway chairs, and a variety of other products.
A respiratory therapist shared her expertise concerning pulmonary function tests. Well acquainted with the symptymology of post-polio syndrome, she helped us anticipate the types of tests we might need.
A well-known gardening expert and landscape designer showed techniques we can use to garden, even with reduced muscle strength. Kitchen herb gardens, raised flower beds, and light-weight tools are some of the topics she discussed.
Coping with the many social changes brought about by post-polio syndrome was the topic of a guest speaker. Disabled with post-polio syndrome, and forced to retire from his career as a chiropractor, he was able to offer advice as “one of us.”
More group discussion topics: (You can have several to choose for small groups if your group is large enough to break up that way) Pain management; diagnosis and treatment of PPS; spiritual issues in disability; alternative health treatments; coping with family and friends for the polio survivor and the spouse; nutrition/supplements for symptom management.
Try someone who can lead a “Sit and Be Fit” meeting. An aerobics teacher came who has developed a program of exercises that can be adapted to persons with various disabilities.
How about a Registered Dietician, to present nutritional advice that is of special interest to those dealing with chronic illness such as post-polio syndrome. Some of the topics could include controlling weight, maximizing muscle function, decreasing brain fatigue, and enhancing general energy.
Have you thought of having someone from a Hospice speak to your group? They can not only describe the services they offer to families dealing with end-of-life issues, but also present information on facets of pain management.
An Acupuncturist could give your group some good information on alternatives to pain management.