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Health / News / Southampton Press / 2153563

Wellness Programs for Parkinson's Patients

authorMichelle Trauring on Apr 26, 2023

Stony Brook Southampton Hospital’s Center for Parkinson’s Disease is the first program on the East End that offers education and support for patients living with Parkinson’s disease, as well as extensive and integrated community-based wellness services.

The following programs are offered at no charge to participants, though most require advance registration.

Paint at the Parrish
 

Developed in collaboration with the Parrish Art Museum in Water Mill, the American Parkinson Disease Association and Stony Brook Southampton Hospital’s Center for Parkinson’s Disease, this arts program is designed specifically for individuals with Parkinson’s disease and their care partners.

Chair Yoga
 

Classes target unique postural and balance impairments, improving flexibility and strength, while fostering an overall sense of well-being. Chair yoga optimizes breathing, mindfulness and postural awareness while remaining safely seated throughout class.

Rock Steady Boxing
 

A noncontact, boxing-inspired fitness program designed specifically for people with Parkinson’s disease. Preliminary research suggests that boxing may lead to improvements in balance, gait and quality of life. No prior boxing experience is required, and all ages and fitness levels are welcome. Patients must receive clearance from their physician before participating.

Be Fit
 

A strength training class designed specifically for people living with Parkinson’s disease and their care partners. Resistance training can improve strength, power and functional mobility, and this 45-minute virtual class focuses on the basics of strength training in a safe, group format.

Tai Chi and Qigong
 

An ancient Chinese practice combining slow movements and deep breathing, connecting mind and body while promoting overall well-being. Benefits include increased strength, improved balance and posture, decreased risk of falls and decreased stress.

Sing Loud for PD
 

Developed in collaboration with the American Parkinson Disease Association, this class creates a welcoming environment for participants of all musical ability to enjoy the creative process of musical exploration while developing important social connections. Currently offered virtually, each class includes stretching, postural exercises, breathing activities and singing instruction.

EAT WELL With Parkinson’s
 

Explores important nutritional concepts to optimize health and well-being, while introducing new recipes, learning about local food sources and providing hands-on cooking instruction.

Voice Gym
 

An interdisciplinary, group class led by physical therapists and speech language pathologists certified in LSVT Big and LSVT Loud. The 10-week series incorporates both vocal and physical exercises and is uniquely designed to support LSVT Big/Loud graduates.

A Matter of Balance 
for Parkinson’s
 

An eight-week group workshop that emphasizes practical strategies to reduce fear of falling and increase activity levels. Participants learn how to manage falling, increase strength and balance through exercise, set realistic goals to increase activity and change their environment to reduce fall risk factors.

Movement and Mindfulness 
For Care Partners
 

A seated class that combines mindful movement, breath awareness, restorative yoga, Reiki and mindful meditation to help promote healing and relaxation, uniquely supporting care partners. Each class includes gentle movements, breath work and mindfulness to decrease stress and create a deeper mind/body connection.

All workshops and programs are free. For more information, call 631-726-8800, or visit southampton.stonybrookmedicine.edu/services/parkinson-disease.

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