Parkinson's Disease Wellness Programs
Parkinson's Disease Wellness Programs are specifically designed to help individuals with Parkinson’s disease, MS, or any other neuromuscular conditions to maintain and improve their quality of life. All exercises can be modified to accommodate each individual’s needs and abilities. These programs are supported by a community grant from the Parkinson's Foundation.
Parkinson's Exercise
A class open to anyone with a neuromuscular or cerebrovascular condition such as Parkinson’s or Multiple Sclerosis. Each class will include a variety of exercises to help improve balance, mobility, strength, endurance, cognition, and flexibility. Exercises are modified to accommodate everyone’s needs and abilities.
Mondays, 11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
PWR!Moves
PWR!Moves is the core of our PD-specific functional exercise and physical therapy programs. The Basic 4 PWR!Moves are designed to each target a skill known to deteriorate in people with Parkinson's disease, which often leads to loss of mobility and function. The PWR!Moves can be practiced in multiple positions, made progressively more physically and cognitively challenging, and be used differently to target each person’s unique symptoms individually.
Wednesdays, 11:00 AM - 11:45 AM
Pedal for Parkinson's
The MetroWest YMCA offers this program because regular exercise is one of the key components in treating the many symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Research conducted at the Cleveland Clinic showed a 35 percent reduction in symptoms by the simple act of pedaling a bicycle at a rapid pace, optimally 80-90 revolutions per minute. Fast pedaling is not a cure for Parkinson’s disease, but there is compelling evidence to show that it does make a real difference in many who try it.
Tuesdays/Fridays/Sundays, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Requirements to participate:
- Must be over age 30 and diagnosed with Idiopathic Parkinson’s Disease or another neurological condition
- Physician approval is required, and we will have you sign a waiver
- A heart rate monitor and proper cycling equipment, including padded shorts, water, and sneakers or clip-in shoes, are recommended
- Participants must not have cardiac or pulmonary disease, uncontrolled mellitus, uncontrolled hypertension or stroke, dementia, or other medical conditions for which exercise poses a risk
Parkinson's Movement to Music Class
Participants move to music through rhythm and dance sequences, which help improve agility and mobility. All different types of music will be used, and chairs are available.
Thursdays, 1:00 PM - 1:45 PM
Monthly Parkinson's Social Hour - FREE
Join us in Studio C at the Framingham Branch for light refreshments and the chance to connect with other members and Y staff.
Every second Friday of the month, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Pete Donahue Parkinson's Scholarship
The Pete Donahue Parkinson's Scholarship was established through generous gifts made by the family and friends of the late Pete Donahue. Pete was a long-time member and friend of the MetroWest YMCA who courageously fought Parkinson’s disease until his death in 2013. Regular exercise and his friendships with other Y members were very important to Pete, and his family wants to help other individuals with Parkinson’s access the programs and services that the MetroWest YMCA provides.
Through the Pete Donahue Parkinson's Scholarship, the MetroWest YMCA provides financial assistance to those with medically diagnosed Parkinson’s Disease. Individuals have the opportunity to exercise under the supervision of our Wellness staff up to two times per week. The program also includes membership benefits which provide access to our drop-in and specialty group exercise programs and aquatics programs.
To donate to the Pete Donahue Parkinson's Scholarship, please go here:
To enroll in the Pete Donahue Parkinson’s Scholarship program, please contact Lauren Hanley: laurenhanley@metrowestymca.org