Walking is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to increase physical activity.
Five Activities for National Parkinson’s Month
BY JUDITH DELIS, ADMINISTRATOR, SEMINOLE SHORES LIVING CENTER, NORTON SHORES
April was National Parkinson’s Month and there’s no better time than now to talk about a disease that affects the nervous system and movement skills, making it difficult to engage in everyday activities. This can be especially challenging for seniors who may already be experiencing other normal aging-related changes.
However, a Parkinson’s diagnosis does not mean seniors cannot stay active. Here are five activities that can help.
Gardening. Gentle activities like gardening are a great way for seniors to stay active. You can also help modify this activity to make it easier. For example, setting up a gardening bench or station allows work while sitting instead of kneeling.
Balloon Volleyball. Balloon volleyball is a simple activity with numerous benefits. Catching and hitting a balloon before it floats to the ground can encourage physical movement and even stretching. The balloon’s movement is also unpredictable, creating the mental challenge of following its path as it floats to the ground.
Since it is a group activity, balloon volleyball also encourages socialization that can prevent feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Water Aerobics. Parkinson’s can affect balance, but water activities are an easy way around that problem. A water aerobics class also provides an opportunity to get out of the house and socialize.
Many communities offer other group exercise activities targeted toward people with Parkinson’s, such as dance and stretch movements. Look for events hosted by local hospitals, churches, or fitness centers.
Painting. Painting and other artistic activities can be done alone or in a group. They usually do not involve moving the whole body, but these activities can help maintain fine motor skills and encourage well-being and personal expression.
Look for art classes or group events around your community.
Walks. Walking is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to increase physical activity. You can take a walk nearly anywhere, such as a park, mall, museum, or even supermarket.
If balance is a concern, seniors can use a cane, walker, or walking stick to stay steady, making sure to stop and rest when needed.
It is a good idea to talk to a doctor about this condition to help determine the best activities and how to perform them safely.
Worried about staying healthy and active with Parkinson’s? Seminole Shores Assisted Living and all Heritage Senior Communities provide quality care for seniors. We continue to grow to meet the needs of our local communities. Contact us today to schedule a tour (231) 780-2944.
Seminole Shores Assisted Living Center, located in Norton Shores, Michigan, gives seniors the opportunity to be independent while knowing that assistance is available to serve them whenever they need it. The center offers housekeeping, laundry, medication management, 24 hour care, three home-cooked meals a day and a full activity and event program. A pet-friendly community, Seminole Shores Assisted Living Center is owned and operated by Heritage Property Management Inc., located in Grand Haven, Michigan. Heritage Property Management Inc. is a family-owned company that operates nine assisted living homes and five independent living homes across the state of Michigan. Learn more at seminoleshoresalc.com and call (231) 780-2944 for a tour.
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