Central New Jersey has a well-rounded program for people with Parkinson’s. It includes:
- physical therapy
- occupational therapy
- speech and voice therapy
- athletic training
- groups sessions in “stretching and strengthening, a cardiovascular workout, posture enhancement and relaxation and breathing technique”
Sounds like they keep you busy! And yes, you have homework!
Click here for the complete article from MyCentralJersey.com.
The article mentions the case of Irene Blackburn (see photo above, which accompanies the article), who has PD. Here are the opening paragraphs:
When Irene Blackburn began losing strength in her muscles and feeling off-balance, she just accepted it as the normal progression of Parkinson’s disease.
“My balance was so bad, I thought I would end up needing to use a wheelchair. I felt like I was tipsy because I would lean to the right side,” says Blackburn, 67, of Manville, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. …
Falling was a constant fear for Blackburn. Her leg muscles were so weak she needed help to get up out of a chair. She gave up doing her favorite arts and crafts because her hands and fingers weren’t strong enough to hold a paintbrush or sewing needle.
But here are the closing paragraphs, showing how much she benefited from the program:
Following her therapy, Blackburn built up her hand strength enough to begin rug weaving again. She uses a cane for walking but has regained her balance. With stronger leg muscles, she can easily get up and down from a chair by herself.
“I walk with a much stronger determination,” she said. “I carry myself much better without any fear of falling.”
Blackburn continues to do exercises for about 30 minutes a day at home and swims three days a week at a Hillsborough fitness center.
“I really feel like I’m living again,” she said.
One more quote, from one of Irene’s therapists, bolding mine:
“Our goal is to minimize the effects of Parkinson’s and delay the deterioration,” said Maria Halka, Blackburn’s occupational therapist. “Patients tend to perform movements in a slow, hesitant way and we work with them to amplify their movements to help them to get back to doing the things they love to do.”
It’s all about thinking big! And that looks like a mighty big needlepoint or hooked rug canvas she’s working on! Go, Irene!
