January 31, 2018
Parkinson Disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects motor and non-motor functions due to a lack of dopamine in the brain. Currently, PD affects 1 in every 500 people in Canada (Statistics Canada).
In January, 2018, Bow View Manor become one of the first long term care facilities in Alberta to offer a therapy program for residents affected by PD. The “Toe Tappers” program has been created by Bow View Manor Recreation Therapists, in consultation with the Bow View Manor Physiotherapist, to plan an individualized dance program for seven residents diagnosed in all stages of PD. Recreation Therapists also liaised with experts in the community, including Parkinson’s Alberta, and a certified dance therapist specializing in neuromotor movements.
This collaborative approach aims to improve residents balance, gait, cognitive abilities and increase self-esteem, all while having fun with an array of different dance moves and music! Toe Tappers will also include mechanisms to evaluate the outcomes of this exciting new program.
