The floor is lava. Keep your balance, and walk
from point to point. The “floating rocks” will get further apart, so each step will be larger than the last.
What is the reason for this strange game? It’s actually a carefully planned activity: part of the new three- month, evidence-based wellness program at Landis Homes specifically designed to help those diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease delay the progression of their symptoms and increase physical strength.
INSPIRED Every Day
W
es Newswanger was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2014, three years before he and his wife Janet Breneman moved to Landis Homes. Wes has gotten to take advantage of the Parkinson’s program, which offers exercise classes focused on cardio, balance, and
functional vocal multi-tasking. Te classes also include a support hub for education, connection, and learning among Parkinson’s patients. Tis pilot series was held on campus twice a week, and four men attended.
“Tere is camaraderie between the participants and staff,” Wes said. “Tey’re wonderful and very dedicated. We had a good time together.”
Tere are different activities each day, such as outdoor walking and “the floor is lava” simulations that help participants practice maintaining balance. Wes particularly appreciates the classes because his balance and speech have been impacted by the progression of Parkinson’s. Janet also believes that the classes have been wonderful for him.
Now that the pilot is complete, each upcoming session will offer free bonus classes such as drumming, boxing, and chair yoga.
For Wes, he’s experienced enormous compassion and understanding throughout the classes, particularly from the staff, including Tori Kling, Resident Wellness Coordinator, who runs the classes.
“We recognize that no one person has the same symptoms or same experience with Parkinson’s disease and it keeps us vigilant in creating and modifying the class to benefit each individual,” Tori said. “Our focus is on serving you, challenging you, and helping to slow down the progression of symptoms. Tis will help you overcome symptoms, help you feel connected, and make you aware that this isn’t something you need to try and overcome by yourself. You are not defined by Parkinson’s.”
In the future, the hope is that these classes will expand to offer podcasts and webinars, all with the goal of assisting those diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and supporting their family members.
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Landis.org | FLOURISH | Fall 2021
CULTIVATING WELLNESS
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