Empowering Members Through Fitness, Education, and Support
Linda J. Eber, LCSW
“Parkinson’s can be very frightening, and joining [the Center’s classes] has eased the fear. The class improved my mobility, increased my energy, and made me part of a group where we all understood each other. We all feel like a family and the class lifts our spirits. We network and share the knowledge we have gained.”
Seven years ago, a community member asked a staff person, “Can we offer programs at the Center for people like me with Parkinson’s?” That question led us to develop programs that promote awareness about Parkinson’s disease (PD) symptoms and ways to manage its progression. Funding from the Parkinson’s Foundation and the American Parkinson’s Disease Association enabled the Center to provide resources to individuals and families. Our various free programs address physical and emotional aspects of the condition.
Teaming up with Evolve Physical Therapy, Rock Steady Boxing (RSB) has become one of the cornerstones of the Center’s classes for people with PD. Available in-person and virtually on Zoom, this non-contact boxing program helps reduce the progression of symptoms by incorporating stretching, strength training, core work, and reaction time to enhance mobility and flexibility, as well as improve gait and balance.
“RSB provides good coordination and response training. This class is vitally important to me because it’s the only time of my week that I’m with other people with Parkinson’s. The camaraderie is supportive.”
Recently, the Center began offering several new PD fitness classes. In Drum Exercise, participants use drumsticks and a large exercise ball to beat rhythms to dynamic, upbeat music. Whether seated or standing, this aerobic activity seems almost secondary to participants’ exuberance and enjoyment. Information about body structure and benefits of each movement is also included. “The teacher encourages us and puts everyone in a good mood. That makes my dopamine levels go up. I didn’t have tremors during the class. That’s not forever, but it stopped during the class.”
Seated Yoga, for individuals with PD and family members, aids or friends, teaches movements to help combat stiffness and a reduced range of motion. Having a shared experience encourages physical and emotional support.
“It’s hard to find a class for people with PD. Luckily, I found the classes at the Center. I feel significantly better both mentally and physically after taking the class.”
Write On! Improving Handwriting, is taught by a certified Occupational Therapist. Step-by-step guidance and adaptive tools help increase hand strength and fine motor skills to help mitigate the illegible handwriting often experienced by people with PD.
An evening Support Group for Care Partners is facilitated on Zoom by a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for participants to share experiences and obtain resources for managing their own health while managing their loved one’s care.
“Being with others who are coping with this disease is so important. There are so many challenges in caring for my husband. I often forget about taking time for myself. This group reminds me how important that is.”
This spring, the Center will offer Lunch & Learn Educational Seminars: Practical Tips for Managing PD for people with PD and their care partners. Interactive demonstrations will teach techniques to reduce fear of falling, enhance awareness of body mechanics, and promote more independent movement.
Through the Center’s free interactive PD programs, participants gain confidence to “fight back against Parkinson’s.” Recognizing challenges faced by those living with PD, the Center’s services aim to improve their overall quality of life and foster a supportive network. Through these programs, the Center ensures that every member can face Parkinson’s with resilience and hope.
For more information and class schedules, please contact Aimee Mishaan, Director of Community Services, at Aimee@scclive.org, or 718-954-3157.
