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Exercise improves ambulation, balance, psychological well-being and prevents falls. In some stages of the disease, it is as important as medication.
Anthony May, M.D.
program director
Parkinson’s Disease & Movement Center
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WellSpan Adult Neurology offers classes in aquatics, ballroom dance and Tai Chi
Most people associate Parkinson’s disease with celebrities such as Michael J. Fox and Muhammad Ali, but nearly a million ordinary Americans live quietly with the neurodegenerative disorder every day.
In recent years, WellSpan Neurosciences has found dynamic new ways to engage Parkinson’s disease patients and their families.
Cindy Capresecco is program coordinator of the Parkinson's Disease & Movement Disorder Center at WellSpan Adult Neurology. She said that in addition to a traditional support group, Parkinson’s disease patients have the opportunity to join specialized physical therapy programs.
Anthony May, M.D., program director, said, “Exercise improves ambulation, balance, psychological well-being and prevents falls. In some stages of the disease, it is as important as medication.”
The center offers classes in aquatics, ballroom dance, and even Tai Chi. The Chinese martial art reduces stress, improves balance, and may help with sleeplessness and depression.
Capresecco has both a professional and personal interest in Parkinson’s disease—her mother is a longtime sufferer. She said that support groups provide great comfort to patients and their caregivers.
“You don’t feel as if you’re battling this disease by yourself, and it’s a great opportunity to share and receive new information,” she said. “The social connections have proven very valuable.”
Joyce Kearns of Emigsville was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease six years ago, and has belonged to the support group since 2005. She often speaks to the group, encouraging other members to try the exercise class.
“If I don’t exercise, I don’t move as well,” Kearns explained. “If I can convince one more person to exercise, then it’s worth it.”
She added that the ballroom dance class offers an even greater workout.
“When I was in college I did a lot of ballroom and swing dancing, so I love it,” Kearns said.
John Brenneman of York has been fighting Parkinson’s disease for two decades. He agrees that the exercise class is very beneficial. Brenneman attended several dance classes and enjoyed the waltz, foxtrot and the tango.
The Parkinson’s Disease & Movement Disorder Center also offers a caregivers support group at the same time a music therapy program is conducted for patients. This enables the spouse to attend the caregivers group without needing to find outside help to stay with the patient.
The center also hosts an annual Parkinson’s disease symposium which features new developments and the latest research findings. Capresecco said patients and their caregivers are always eager for new information about the disease.
