Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition that affects more than 100,000 Australians, with families across the country being impacted by this devastating disease. Parkinson’s is a complex condition with a wide variety of symptoms. The three main, and commonly recognised symptoms are tremor, slowness of movement and rigidity. These symptoms start to appear when the brain can’t make enough dopamine to control movement properly. Although there are many challenges for those living with Parkinson’s (especially as the disease progresses) studies have shown that those with an early prognosis can reap the benefits of exercise in their daily lives. It is well documented that exercise is a key component when it comes to good health and wellness, so it is no surprise that it also provides benefits to those living with Parkinson’s.
A recent study conducted by the Australian Physiotherapy Association that involved over 540 people living with the disease found that being a part of an organised exercise class, run by instructors with expertise in the management of Parkinson’s can be an invaluable resource for those affected by the disease in its early stages.
Furthermore, the study found that “participants preferred to engage in regular exercise or add additional exercise if the exercise program provided them with physical or psychological benefits and the exercise was multimodal in nature”. When it comes to the specific exercises enjoyed by participants, the study found that men preferred adding strength exercises while women were averse to adding aerobic exercises. However, it is important for all people with Parkinson’s disease – but especially women – to understand the benefits of aerobic exercise so that they can make informed choices for themselves. Understanding any barriers to Parkinson’s disease patients taking up exercise is something that researchers were encouraged to explore, the study said. Here at Karingal Green, we pride ourselves on offering our residents and those in the community world class facilities to support their health and wellbeing. Which is why our Wellness Centre offers more than just the opportunity for residents and members of the community to make use of our world class facilities.
As the study discovered that participants were “more willing to engage in regular exercise or add additional exercise when the exercise program cost less and involved less travel”, those suffering from early-stage Parkinson’s disease who live near Karingal Green in High Wycombe would benefit from visiting the Wellness Centre. With options available for regular early intervention group classes – including Pilates, gym work, physiotherapy and hydrotherapy, community clients can enjoy the benefits of low-cost, effective exercise close to home.
Karingal Green is here to help you or your loved one living with Parkinson’s choose the right exercise programs and help you maintain it long term. As doing so you will reap the rewards that keeping fit can bring, despite living with the condition.
Please contact the Karingal Green Wellness Centre for options and to book into group or individual programs.