Recreation Therapy
What is Recreation Therapy?
Recreation therapy is the use of leisure activities to treat and reduce the
symptoms and associated limitations of chronic diseases. These symptoms may
include physical disability, social isolation, depression, and the inability
to think and function safely.
What beneficial activities are offered through the MAPC
Recreation Therapy Program?
In order to meet the individual needs of the movement disorder population,
a variety of activities are offered through the MAPC. These activities have
been specifically adapted for people with movement disorders and are taught
by professionals who have significant knowledge and experience in this area.
This exercise class
is specifically designed for people with Parkinson's disease to increase flexibility, strength, balance and coordination and to also improve communication, voice power and speech clarity. The program is suitable for participants dealing with any of the limitations associated with PD.
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Not only does aquatic therapy offer benefits to people of all ages and abilities, it is especially helpful to participants with Parkinson's disease. In particular, this therapy offers such rewards as increased flexibility, strength, balance and endurance. The buoyancy and cushioning effect of the water allow for freedom of movement while providing the appropriate level of resistance necessary to achieve the desired results.
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The word ‘yoga' loosely translates into ‘union', and yoga has been practiced for centuries to better connect and balance the body, mind and spirit. Using a combination of physical and mental exercises, it promotes flexibility, reduced stress levels and increased stamina and strength. The MAPC is proud to present yoga classes adapted to the specific strengths and limitations of PD.
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Tai Chi is a series of individual dance-like movements linked together in a continuous, smoothly flowing sequence. The easy to learn steps are progressive and choreographed, and they are coordinated with deep breathing exercises. The overall motion is gentle, yet powerful enough to generate, circulate and balance your body's vital energy, called ‘chi'. Tai Chi serves as a total mind and body workout designed to stretch, tone, and relax the body. Particular benefits to people with PD include reduced stress, increased energy, improved concentration and focus, better circulation and muscle tone, and significant improvements in balance.
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Since you were diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease has your golf game suffered or have you stopped playing golf all together? If so then this 4-week golf clinic is for you. Each session will include 1 hour of group golf instruction with a PGA Professional, 1 hour of education about managing your PD with your golf (nutrition, medication, stretching) and a nutrition break. During the last session you will be able to test your game in a skills challenge.
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Put on your dancing shoes and grab your partner and head out to the dance floor. Don't have a partner? No problem, come join us we learn basic dance steps to a variety of ballroom styles including tango, waltz. salsa and more. It might be modified, but we WILL dance while we exercise out bodies and minds through this terrific form of phsyical ezxercise while we enjoy lively music and scial togetherniess. Besides having fun, dancing is beneficial in improving overall health from head to toe, including improving self-esteem, increasing flexibility, balance, stamina and posture. See you out on the dance floor.
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Which activity is right for you or your
loved one?
You may select a particular activity based on personal interests; you may select or be referred to an activity based on anticipated benefits specific to that activity; or the decision may be determined by your level of ability.
How do I participate in a class?
Classes are located at the MAPC and at various locations throughout the valley.
To sign up for a class, or for more information about classes or recreation
therapy in general, please call the Recreation Coordinator at 602-406-6903;
email: dodonn@chw.edu
