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ELEVATE YOUR
PARKINSON’S DISEASE IS a disorder that affects the central
nervous system. People with the illness often have trouble
coordinating their movements or thoughts.
Doctors don’t know why Parkinson’s disease occurs. What
they do know is the disease causes nerve cells that create
dopamine—a chemical that helps control movement and
coordination—to die slowly over time. There is no cure for
Parkinson’s disease. But taking medicine, staying active and
participating in occupational, physical and speech therapies can chores, taking short walks or going to fitness classes designed
help ease symptoms.
A SELF-CARE GUIDE
A diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease can be scary. Self-care that
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ADJUSTING TO A
NEW
NORMAL
Living with Parkinson’s disease often
means making changes to everyday
routines. But families don’t have to take
this journey alone.
addresses emotional, mental and physical well-being helps make
the disease easier to deal with.
One of the best things people with Parkinson’s disease can do
for their health is keep moving. Physical activity can help these
individuals improve their gait, flexibility, speech, strength and
balance.
Examples of safe activities include lifting light weights, doing
specifically for individuals with this condition, like Wellness
Center, Navicent Health’s Power Over Parkinson’s fitness series.
“Exercise is key to slowing down the progression of Parkinson’s
disease,” says Sandra Stone, Power Over Parkinson’s Coordinator at
Wellness Center, Navicent Health. “Power Over Parkinson’s is a safe
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