The Benefits of Exercise for People with Parkinson’s Disease
Nov 18
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Free Brain
What a lot of people don’t understand about Parkinson’s disease is that “the shakes” are just the tip of the iceberg. Parkinson’s riddles us with a plethora of symptoms including but not limited to: balance problems, mental health issues, figuring out our medications and the timings of which we take them, issues with our sleep, and of course the relationships around us it tends to affect.
Living with Parkinson’s disease is hard enough without being told to do jumping jacks on top of it, but incorporating regular exercise into your routine can have numerous benefits for both physical and mental health. Here are some reasons why exercise is crucial for individuals with Parkinson’s disease: It works. Here’s more on that:
Living with Parkinson’s disease is hard enough without being told to do jumping jacks on top of it, but incorporating regular exercise into your routine can have numerous benefits for both physical and mental health. Here are some reasons why exercise is crucial for individuals with Parkinson’s disease: It works. Here’s more on that:
Improved Mobility and Balance
As stated before, balance can be a problem many with the disease deal with. This can also be a source of fear in exercising and moving around in general as falling can be a point of concern. Finding chair exercises can help improve flexibility and balance. The good news is that classes specifically catered towards Parkinson’s folks are structured to be done from a chair and often designed with balance challenges in mind. If you haven’t found your local group, you can try Free Brain right now from your own home.
Of course, a structured course isn’t necessary. For those still able, activities such as walking, swimming, and yoga can all help maintain and improve mobility, reducing the risk of falls and improving overall quality of life. It’s a real move it or lose it situation, so staying ahead of it as best you can is in your best interest.
Of course, a structured course isn’t necessary. For those still able, activities such as walking, swimming, and yoga can all help maintain and improve mobility, reducing the risk of falls and improving overall quality of life. It’s a real move it or lose it situation, so staying ahead of it as best you can is in your best interest.
Slowing of Disease Progression
Unlike many of the medications available (which primarily focus on symptom reduction), research has shown that exercise can potentially slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease. It can help protect nerve cells and release chemicals in the brain that promote the growth of new neurons, ultimately improving brain function and potentially slowing down the advancement of the disease.
Mood Enhancement
If you’re one of the 50% of Parkinson’s patients with a mental health condition, moving more can support you with that challenge as well. Exercise is known to release endorphins and dopamine, which are chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers and mood elevators. For individuals with Parkinson’s disease who may experience depression or anxiety, regular physical activity can help improve mood and overall mental well-being.
Increased Quality of Sleep
Many people with Parkinson’s disease struggle with sleep disturbances. However, exercise can help regulate sleep patterns and improve the quality of sleep. Though it may be frustrating to hear as someone already struggling with sleep, there are steps we can take and things we can control to help regulate our sleep. Magnesium supplements taken consistently can help your body regulate. Listening to alpha waves have scientifically been shown to increase REM cycles and curb waking by keeping the brain at the right frequency. There are many apps and audios with different brain waves available. Additionally, waking and going to bed at the same time every night gives your body something to queue itself with. A consistent exercise routine can promote better rest, leading to increased energy levels and overall health. Finally, setting yourself up for success every night is critical. Remove screens, lower the lighting, and try breathing exercises or hot showers before bed. Giving your mind and body a queue every night can help regulate dysregulated systems.
Social Connection
Participating in group exercise classes or activities can provide opportunities for social interaction and connection with others. This can help combat feelings of isolation and provide a supportive community for individuals with Parkinson’s disease.
A great way to exercise while incorporating the people and loved ones into your treatment plan is finding activities to do together. Taking walks, pickle balls, and even learning the latest TicToc dances can prove lasting memories while you’re building your brain and body connection back up. FreeBrain offers a library of dance and exercise classes you can try doing together to ensure you’re doing exactly what experts recommend.
A great way to exercise while incorporating the people and loved ones into your treatment plan is finding activities to do together. Taking walks, pickle balls, and even learning the latest TicToc dances can prove lasting memories while you’re building your brain and body connection back up. FreeBrain offers a library of dance and exercise classes you can try doing together to ensure you’re doing exactly what experts recommend.
Recommendations for Exercise
It is important for individuals with Parkinson’s disease to consult with their healthcare provider before starting an exercise routine. A physical therapist or certified fitness professional with experience in working with individuals with Parkinson’s disease can help create a tailored exercise plan that is safe and effective.
Look, we know it’s asking a lot from people already struggling with Parkinson’s to exercise, but it is definitely worth the effort. It’s a powerful tool for managing the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and improving overall well-being. By incorporating physical activity into your daily routine, you can experience a range of benefits that can positively impact your health and quality of life, potentially offering you a better quality of life than you had before your diagnosis.
Look, we know it’s asking a lot from people already struggling with Parkinson’s to exercise, but it is definitely worth the effort. It’s a powerful tool for managing the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and improving overall well-being. By incorporating physical activity into your daily routine, you can experience a range of benefits that can positively impact your health and quality of life, potentially offering you a better quality of life than you had before your diagnosis.
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