Can dance classes help manage the symptoms of those with Parkinsons?Many diseases seem to manifest in older individuals, and one of them is Parkinsons disease (PD), which is a chronic degenerative disorder of the central nervous system that impacts both the motor system and non-motor systems. Early symptoms are typically tremors, slow movement, rigidity, and difficulty while walking. As the disease progresses, cognition, behavior, sleep, and sensory systems may be affected. In the advanced stages of the disease, dementia often develops.Parkinsons disease generally appears in individuals over the age of 60. The average life expectancy once diagnosed is between 7 and 15 years. No cure is known, and treatment is designed to mitigate symptoms rather than cure them. Initial treatment includes medications and may eventually necessitate surgery to implant microelectrodes for deep brain stimulation.While all of this may seem dire, there are alternative techniques that seem to be helping those with Parkinsons and other related conditions. One of the more surprising (and joyful) revelations is that music and dancing may be providing relief to those with PD. Whether to help the body, strengthen cognition, or elevate quality of life, dancing is incorporated into many assisted living programs. While studies are sparse on the subject, those participating in these types of programs report excellent results. Dance for Parkinsons is a group based in Brooklyn that has seen success with PD patients.One participant stated The dance class has made a huge difference in my symptoms I am walking better, feel more balanced and stronger. The class provides an inspiration to move. Another shared, When I am in dance class, I feel like I dont have Parkinsons anymore.How Can Dance Help Those with Parkinsons?Dance develops flexibility and supports mobility: Most people understand that as we grow older, a lack of movement can become increasingly detrimental. This is why seniors are always encouraged to walk or develop an appropriate exercise routine. Dance can keep muscles more flexible and promote movement and mobility.Dancing improves cognition and connects mind to body: Although a physical activity, dancing requires that the participant thinks about the moves and communicates those moves to their body. This mind-to-body connection helps Parkinsons patients to regain control of their body in the moment.Dancing concentrates on movement and balance: When someone is living with a condition that attacks their stability and movement, they may be tempted to avoid activities that cause them to be on their feet. However, dancing can help PD patients protect and regain some of the stength and balance they have lost, as well as encourage range of movement. Not only that, but they learn to better control their movement through space, which can help with everyday activities.Dance classes destroy loneliness and isolation: One of the primary concerns for those who live with a chronic disease is that they tend to isolate themselves. This can lead to loneliness and depression that can make their physical condition more pronounced. When a PD patient attends a dance class, they engage with others in a joyful and fun expression that they can share with one another as they make new friends.Dancing builds confidence: Those who are suffering from physical and cognitive challenges often lose their confidence and are self-conscious around others. When a Parkinsons patient learns to dance, they understand that they can still learn new things, have fun, and build their self-esteem and confidence.Overall, dancing inspires joy, creativity, and happiness and everyone deserves more of that.Find the Right Senior Residence for Your Loved OneAt My Care Finders, we work with families to find the right assisted living or memory care center for their senior loved one. Call today to learn more about the communities providing the lifestyle and activities to ensure they enjoy the best quality of life.

As we age, we experience many physical, mental and emotional changes. It is common for a senior adult to experience some limited forgetfulness or notice an ache that has recently developed, but in some cases these symptoms may indicate the onset of dementia. There is a growing body of evidence that cognitive issues like dementia exhibit an extended preclinical stage that could begin years or even decades before an official diagnosis. One of the preclinical symptoms of dementia is the onset of issues with motor skills. Regarding balance and coordination, it can be difficult to differentiate between normal age-related changes and the decline of motor skill that may place older adults at an elevated risk for dementia.Once a dementia diagnosis is confirmed, family members will probably become gradually more aware of the changes in the patients cognitive and organizational capabilities. They may also notice their family member is struggling with everyday tasks like dressing themselves or walking without assistance. Loss of stamina and coordination may also point to more extensive brain damage.Exercise Can Help with Dementia and Motor SkillsResearch has shown that regular physical exercise is integral to the health and wellbeing of patients who are living with preclinical or clinical symptoms of dementia. As with any new exercise regimen, any physical exercise must be deemed safe and enjoyable for the patient and inspire feelings of accomplishment. While individuals of any age should ask their doctor for approval before beginning a new exercise routine, it is especially critical for a senior looking to improve motor skills through movement.A physical therapist is an excellent starting point when developing a new exercise routine for those with motor skill impairment. These professionals can help to create an exercise regimen that will boost stamina, flexibility and balance and recommend exercises that will prevent issues associated with falling. If the patient does not have access to a physical therapist, the American Physical Therapy website can provide information regarding any local professionals and resources. Your family members doctor, nurse, or social worker may also be able to provide recommendations as to the right contact.Exercise that is most appropriate for senior citizens may include walking, swimming, dancing, gardening or even light housework. All of these suggestions are affordable and require little to no equipment, but they will go a long way to cultivating feelings of accomplishment and self-worth. These types of activities provide social and cognitive stimulation. Any activity that involves music can intensify and elevate the positive results. (Read more about how music can benefit a wide variety of individuals facing cognitive difficulties.)Any activity that works to improve fine motor skills will benefit the patient. The ability to navigate food packaging, successfully open and close buttons or zippers, or use a spoon and fork gives dementia or early-stage Alzheimers patients the opportunity to maintain their independence for as long as possible. An occupational therapist (OT) can recommend exercises and adaptive gear that will further assist with their home life.Other Ideas to Improve Motor SkillsSome senior adults dont like the thought of exercising, regardless of the potential benefits. However, if you are interested in working with your family member to retain cognitive capability and motor skills as long as possible, here are some additional recommendations to encourage that goal.arts and crafts projectsscrapbooking or working with photoscooking or baking (if safe)painting or drawingcontainer gardeningFind a Residence That Enhances Quality of LifeMy Care Finders is a team of senior care professionals working in the Florida community. We help families to locate the best assisted living, memory care or senior residence solution for their loved ones, by matching desires and budgets with the most highly rated facilities. Call us today to learn more about how our FREE services can benefit your family.

Homes Sales & the Move to Assisted LivingLife is ever-changing and evolving, and sometimes those changes can inspire uncertainty. For senior citizens considering transitioning into assisted living, a primary concern is the fear of losing ones autonomy and independence. However, assisted living often offers seniors the opportunity to enhance their independence, not hinder it. Assisted living residences can redefine independence, allowing senior adults to explore a new lifestyle full of connection, activity, and growth all without the responsibilities and maintenance of homeownership. Is it time to sell your home and move to the next phase of your life? Lets take a closer look.Diverse Benefits of Selling a HomeFlorida resale values have been rising for several years and although list prices seem to be leveling off, the advantages for many seniors looking to sell their homes are obvious. Especially for those whose mortgage is paid off, capitalizing on the total equity built up over years of homeownership can be an intelligent financial strategy.Remember: Be sure to consult with your personal financial advisor and an experienced real estate professional before deciding to sell your home.Selling a home that is not encumbered by a mortgage could net a senior a considerable sum of cash. Even those homeowners with mortgages, however, may see a tidy profit as current market conditions have boosted most Florida home values, increasing equity and financial opportunities.Beyond the tangible financial gains, selling your home as a senior may provide an invaluable level of clarity. No market is forever, and conditions are ever-changing. Waiting for the perfect time to make the switch may result in missed opportunities as market dynamics shift. Opting to sell in a strong market that coincides with an interest in assisted living may enable more robust budgeting for future living expenses.Relieving the Burdens of HomeownershipMaking the move to assisted living does indicate the end of one phase of your life and the beginning of another. However, this can be a net positive in many ways. The day-to-day challenges of maintaining a home and yard can be replaced with a supportive living environment where all household tasks are taken care of for you. For many senior citizens, home maintenance responsibilities from routine cleaning to unexpected repairs can become tiresome and overwhelming, consuming time and financial resources that could be better spent on an enjoyable retirement. Selling a personal home liberates an older adult from the ongoing obligations of property ownership.And while an assisted living residence offers a lifestyle free of most everyday burdens, seniors do not automatically relinquish control of their daily lives. Every resident in an assisted living community is afforded an appropriate level of independence while also delivering the level of care they require. Very few senior adults will miss having to schedule lawn maintenance or call an A/C repair company but if they are able to continue cooking for themselves and participating in their favorite hobbies and they still wish to that is still an option. In other words, assisted living allows seniors to spend their days in a way that makes them happy and fulfilled.Selling a long-time or family home can be stressful and a little sad, but the trade-off can be wonderful. If you or a family member is considering transitioning from a personal residence to a senior community, call My Care Finders first. Our compassionate and knowledgeable team has worked with hundreds of Florida families to determine the best next step for their loved one.My Care Finders understands that every individual has unique needs and desires and we are here to make sure your new home checks every box.