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Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive disorder of the nervous system that affects movement. In PD, there is a range of difficulty with movement, affecting an individual’s voice, breathing, and general mobility. Many of the symptoms of PD are due to stiffness, lack of speed and decreased vocal loudness. While initially these symptoms may be minor, they can pose significant limitations on daily function as the disease progresses. Mid Coast Hospital has developed the following resources to help individual’s reduce symptoms of PD:
LSVT LOUD
LSVT LOUD is an intensive speech therapy treatment that focuses on the voice to improve or maintain vocal strength, loudness, speech intelligibility, inflection and improving facial expressions. If you or a loved one is experiencing difficulty communicating due to PD, an LSVT-certified speech and language pathologist works closely with your neurologist or primary care physician to design a customized treatment plan to meet your individual needs. Learn more
LSVT BIG
LSVT BIG is an outpatient treatment program provided by an LSVT BIG certified physical therapist, occupational therapist or physical/occupational therapist assistant. It addresses the unique movement impairments for people with Parkinson disease. The exercises focus on increasing amplitude of movements, often resulting in improved speed, balance & quality of life. The program is both intensive and complex, with many repetitions of core movements that are used in daily living.
Exercise for LSVT Graduates
Mid Coast Hospital has partnered with the Brunswick Landing YMCA to offer a exercise program for individuals who have graduated from an LSVT program. The program is designed to help you maintain and improve the physical gains that you achieved during the LSVT program. A Mid Coast Hospital LSVT BIG certified physical therapist leads the weekly sessions. The program will incorporate the LSVT LOUD principles and allow you to participate in the 7 BIG maximal daily exercises plus exciting new activities including Argentine tango, yoga, and Tai Chi. This program is available at the Brunswick Landing YMCA.
Exercise for Parkinson’s
Multiple studies have shown that programmed exercises can reduce muscle stiffness, improve mobility, and decrease falls in PD patients. Exercise can help retrain the brain by learning a new way to complete an old task. Exercise for Parkinson’s is intended for ALL patients with PD and will incorporate movement, dance, and tai chi. This program is available at the Brunswick Landing YMCA.
Rock Steady Boxing
Rock Steady Boxing improves the quality of life for people battling Parkinson’s disease through non-contact, boxing-inspired fitness training. No boxing experience is necessary and people of all ages are invited to participate. Classes take place at the Brunswick Landing YMCA and are led by certified Rock Steady Boxing instructors.
See more about Rock Steady Boxing in the news:
Parkinson’s Disease Support Group
Mid Coast Hospital recognizes that PD affects individuals and families in different ways. The purpose of this informal group is to allow people with PD and their caregivers to share information, compare experiences, offer solutions, and voice concerns. The group meets monthly at Mid Coast Hospital and is facilitated by a wellness specialist.
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