Parkinson’s Disease can be slowed

Parkinson’s Disease impacts many aspects of an individual’s daily life.  Our Parkinson’s Disease Exercise Program is here to help slow the progress of the disease. This program is not just a group exercises. We utilize specific exercises for known to help those with Parkinson’s Disease. The exercises are based on research that has shown that they can slow the progress and in many cases improve the symptoms experienced. Many of the exercises are based on traditional medical based physical and occupational therapy.  The program helps reinforce the gains you have made in therapy in a supportive community based program. The focus of the exercises is to build strength to maintains posture, balance, gait and voice. Secondly we work to maintain flexibility and improving cardiovascular endurance. Lastly, we challenge our brain in multiple tasks to keep it sharp and agile.

Support and Friendship

Participants in our programs will feel the support of the greater PD community.  They understand the shared experiences of the impact this disease has on their lives.  There is a bond that exists, not just for our participants but for their families too.

Why exercise so important for Parkinson’s Disease?

Exercise, at a high intensity, has been shown to alleviate rigidity and excessive muscle tone for individuals with Parkinson’s Disease. Individuals with PD should be exercising at a “higher intensity than they believe they can” in order to receive these benefits. A process know as neuoprotection slows the progression of Parkinson’s Disease , and occurs with specific exercises and movements.  Further, specific exercises and movements can create new neuropathways to “bypass” those not functioning well; this process is known as neuroplasticity.  The PRW!Moves program is the foundation of our exercise programs and is a certified Parkinson exercise program by the Parkinson’s Foundation.

Which Level is right for me?

We have two class levels to assure we are addressing your needs optimally.  The Program coordinator will meet with you to help assure you are in the most appropriate level to benefit you.

• Level 1-2: will include faster transitions and advanced movements. Individuals in the level will need less 1:1 support from volunteers and staff members.
• Level 3-4: will include more limited transitions, functional movements, and seated exercises when need. Support from Staff and Volunteer will be available.

Both levels allow for modifications to meet your individual needs.

Who can participate in the PD Exercise program?

• This is a Specialized Exercise Class for those with the diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease.

When is this program offered?

• This program is offered throughout the year.

• Individuals with Parkinson’s Disease
• Individuals in this program must be able to participate independently with direction from the lead facilitator. 
  • If individuals need 1:1 assistance, a mentor or care partner must attend and assist the individual at the program.
  • If you need assistance finding support, please contact STAR. We may have 1:1 mentors available.
• Participants will be held to the STAR Center Code of Conduct

More options to keep moving

Those with Parkinson’s Disease may be interested inother programs offered at the STAR Center. Rock Steady Boxing, Drums Alive, Yoga and Tai Chi which have all been found to be beneficial in controlling symptoms.  You are also invited to try our recreation programs such as pickleball, bocce, adaptive biking, and adaptive kayaking.