Stephens Memorial offers new exercise program for people with Parkinson’s

NORWAY – Stephens Memorial Hospital’s Physical Rehabilitation Department is launching a new exercise series for people with Parkinson’s, BIG for LIFE.

Lissa Merrill, director of Physical Rehab, said the program is “an amazing opportunity for our community.”
“People with Parkinson’s now have a program designed just for them and their unique needs,” she said. “It’s fun and energetic and will help participants stay active.”
The exercise class BIG for LIFE is only for those who have completed the BIG and LOUD program. It is taught by a certified physical or occupational therapist from Stephens Memorial Hospital two times a month. The goal of the class is to help individuals practice their exercises, encourage BIG movements, and gain encouragement from others participating in the class.
SMH is the only rehab center in this region to offer both BIG and LOUD and BIG for LIFE. BIG and LOUD is part of an internationally recognized program, Lee Silverman Voice Treatment. LSVT BIG and LOUD have been studied at the National Institute of Health for 25 years and has strong evidence that supports the program. These are not general exercise programs. Instead, they are research-based treatment protocols designed specifically to address the motor, sensory and non-motor symptoms that many people with Parkinson’s face.
To sign up, or for more information on either of the programs, call the SMH Physical Rehab Department at 207-744-6160.