Finding balance: Living a fulfilled life with Parkinson’s Disease. By Traci Aday
A Parkinson’s diagnosis can be very overwhelming. You are suddenly thrust into this new world involving medications, doctor visits, and lifestyle changes. And while those things will become a routine part of your life, they shouldn’t be your whole life. Medication and exercise will be a central part of your new lifestyle, no question about it. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up who you were and what you enjoyed before the diagnosis. That’s where balance comes in. Merging the reality of your diagnosis with the person you still are. Finding time to commit to weekly exercise and do other things you enjoy is so important.
As a Parkinson’s and neurologic certified LPTA, I cannot overemphasize the importance of a consistent Parkinson’s based exercise program. But consistent doesn’t have to mean boring. Cardio can be lots of things: walking, biking, hiking, or dancing. Stretching can be Pilates, yoga, mobility exercises or a stretch class. There are lots of evidence-based classes for PD but personally I think you find what you enjoy and what you will stick with. Mix it up to give yourself something to look forward to. Invite your friends and family to come along. If you don’t have PD specific programs in your area, there are tons of online videos through the Parkinson’s Foundation.
It’s also essential to have a life outside of your diagnosis. Try out things that have nothing to do with Parkinson’s. Everyone is different, so find what you enjoy. Maybe that means trying a new class or learning a new language. Simply going out with your friends every week or reading a new book. You are so much more than a person with Parkinson’s. Managing your symptoms is crucial to your overall well-being, but so is enjoying your life. It may take a while to find what works for you, but it will lead to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Traci Aday LPTA – NCS
Parkinson’s Care Clinic