Wellness Programs and Support Groups
Specialized Wellness Programs
The BIDMC Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders Clinic is proud to be on the leading edge not only in diagnosis and treatment of Parkinson’s and similar illnesses, but in the study of new ways to help patients manage their disease.
Some research suggests that many patients with movement disorders benefit greatly from practicing what is so difficult for them — movement. We have piloted a number of modified fitness programs, from golf lessons to modern dance. While it is still unclear to what extent these activities impact patients, there is evidence they can stabilize the effects of the disease, slowing the degree to which everyday movement becomes difficult.
Putting and Driving: PD Golf
With spring in full bloom and golf courses shaping up for the summer months, it is time to break out the golf clubs and learn techniques to improve your golf game. This series of classes offers individualized attention for Parkinson's disease patients from Bob Beach, a Class A member of the Professional Golfers Association. Through the Golf for All Association, Bob has devoted his career to expanding the game of golf to all individuals interested in playing the game!
Classes will feature small group instruction and playing time at the Braintree Municipal Golf Course divided over 4 individual sessions. Classes will be held on Tuesday mornings from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM starting June 5th. For more information please see below for a link to the flyer.
Call Lissa Kapust at 617-667-5150 if you are interested in participating. Space is very limited and preregistration is required, so sign up soon!
Tai Chi for PD
Tai Chi a Chinese martial art that includes gentle postures and movements, coordinated with breathing and imagery. With roots in traditional Chinese medicine and Eastern philosophy, Tai Chi seeks to generate and circulate qi, or internal energy, throughout the body. The practice of Tai Chi can result in mental focus, emotional calm and spiritual tranquility. This class is geared to help with balance, musculoskeletal strength and flexibility.
Tai Chi is famous for its healing applications. New medical research suggests Tai Chi may have important benefits for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. The class is designed for people who are able to stand for the 60 minute program. Members of the class will also be invited to bring their partner or a significant other along with them to partake in each class.
There are no current Tai Chi classes open to enrollment. If you would like to participate in a future Tai Chi class please contact Jared Miller at 617-667-9890.
Zumba for PD
Over the past year, BIDMC has brought a modified form of the fitness craze ZUMBA to Parkinson’s patients and their family members. Co-developer of the Zumba Gold Program, Josie Gardiner, inspired participants to step and sway to a driving Latin beat. The results were, well, moving! Watch the video:
Zumba Gold Class
Over the past year, our Zumba education specialist, Josie Gardiner has developed the Zumba Gold program which fits the needs of people living with Parkinson's Disease while allowing them to participate in an exhilarating workout program. This energetic and fun form of dance incorporates Latin and international rhythms, and has been modified to help improve gait, coordination and mobility for people with Parkinson’s disease.
These class is designed for people who are able to stand for the entire 45 minute program. Members of the class will also be invited to bring their partner or a significant other along with them to partake in each class for no additional cost.
There are no current Zumba classes open to enrollment. If you would like to participate in a future Zumba class please contact Jared Miller at 617-667-9890.
Zumba Gold Chair Class- Spring 2012
Josie's classes have been such a huge hit that we have now modified our Zumba Gold classes to allow participants to be seated while dancing!
These classes are designed to meet the needs of individuals with Parkinson’s Disease who have difficulty standing or walking for extended periods of time. Members of the class will also be invited to bring their partner or a significant other along with them to partake in each class for no additional cost.
There are no current Seated Zumba classes open to enrollment. If you would like to participate in a future Seated Zumba class please contact Jared Miller at 617-667-9890.
Dance for PD
Dozens of people affected by Parkinson’s Disease joined BIDMC staff in January 2010 to stretch, breathe and dance. The event featured two members of the Mark Morris Dance Group, who have worked with the Brooklyn Parkinson Group since 2001 by offering free dance classes for Parkinson’s patients.
Upcoming Wellness Programs
Lissa Kapust and the rest of our Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorder Staff are working hard to roll out new types of Wellness Programs to help our patient's manage their disease and to keep them healthy, connected and informed. To keep informed on our upcoming Wellness Programs, please check here in the coming months or email Jared Miller (jmille12@bidmc.harvard.edu) and ask to be included on our email list.
Support Groups
Advocacy and Support Organizations Directory
WE MOVE provides a comprehensive listing of non-profit organizations around the world committed to facilitating accurate diagnosis and access to up-to-date care. These organizations have established support services for individuals with specific movement disorders and their families. Some have chapter affiliates, publish educational materials, raise funds and provide grant money for scientific research.
American Parkinson Disease Association
The Massachusetts Chapter of the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDAMA) offers comprehensive listings of local support groups and resources as well as related events taking place across the state.
