CEU Continuing Education in the Convenience of Your Own Home

For further information, contact the American Parkinson's Disease Association, Inc. at (800) 223-2732.

GUIDELINES

WORKING WITH CLIENTS SUFFERING FROM PARKINSON'S

TOP TEN

1. Acquire written consent for participation in physical activity from patient's physician. Complete other applicable forms such as contract agreements and liability waivers.

2. Discuss an appropriate exercise program design with your patient's physician.

3. Perform appropriate assessments, both written and functional.

4. Establish client's personal goals.

5. Establish realistic goals, starting with small steps. Provide caring and positive feedback.

6. Make sure the training environment is free of hazards which may lead to injury. The fitness trainer should continually spot the client. If the client is participating in a group exercise environment, make sure a ballet barre, chair and/or railing in available for support. If a physical support is not available, conduct the program in a seated position for those who are in high risk of falling.

7. Schedule exercises when rigidity is less pronounced. This will depend upon the time of day that medication is taken and when peak drug effects occur.

8. Focus on exercises enhancing posture, balance, coordination, range of motion, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, breathing and relation.

9. When utilizing machines for cardiorespiratory and muscle conditioning, make sure the machines are safe for individuals at high risk of injury.

10. When performed in 86 [degress] F water, aqua fitness classes can be beneficial for your client since water helps prevent falls and provides a natural medium for cardiorespiratory, resistance, flexibility, range of motion and balance training.

EVEN MORE ...

11. Duration, frequency and intensity of exercise will vary depending on the clients ability to perform, which is based on physical physical deterioration, disease progression and exercise selection.

12. Begin your exercise program by gradually building up to five repetitions whether performing range of motion activities or strength training exercises.

13. Keep the number of repetitions from 10 to 15 maximum to prevent injury.

14. It's important for the fitness professional to regularly document any changes in performance, attitude and general health. First, regular program evaluations help determine if the client's needs are being met. Secondly, certain unusual or concern-causing changes in physical and/or mental characteristics should be reported to the client's physician. Maintain an open line for communication between all parties involved.

15. Most importantly, be patient and supportive. There will be times when the disease takes control and limits client participation.

EXERCISE SUGGESTIONS

(Each exercise will depend upon the level or degree of Parkinson's progression within each individual)

Breathing

Begin by having clients sit in a chair while maintaining good posture. Slowly inhale for four counts, utilizing the diaphragm and exhale for four counts through pursed lips. Focus on lifting the diaphragm and expiring the air as if blowing out a candle. Repeat two times, working up to five repetitions. This exercise helps strengthen respiratory muscles and indirectly encourages proper posture. Be careful not to perform the exercise routing too quickly or with too many repetitions. Clients may become lightheaded and dizzy.