At Home Caregivers in Santa Rosa | The Link Between Exercise and Parkinson’s Disease

Posted on April 11th, by Mark Winter in Dementia, Parkinson's, Senior Exercise, Senior Health. No Comments

Learn the important link between exercise and Parkinson’s disease symptom progression.

The particular results of exercising throughout aging are fantastic; however, for people who have Parkinson’s disease, it could truly be a game-changer in the progression associated with the disease. Several studies are revealing direct links between exercise and Parkinson’s disease, including the largest clinical study up to now, in which patients who exercised at least 2½ hours each week gained a higher total wellbeing compared to those who refrained from physical activity. And that’s only the start.

The onset of Parkinson’s symptoms develops following a loss in the brain cells that make dopamine. Experts think that exercise makes it possible for the brain to revive lost connections, form new ones, and keep maintaining those that continue to be in place. Additional studies show:

Gains were realized in stride length, gait speed and balance following treadmill exercise – after as little as only one session, and enduring for a number of weeks afterwards.
Motor function and coordination were improved in people who pedaled at a faster rate on a stationary bike – again, with results lasting for weeks after the study concluded.
Noticeable improvements in the normalcy of movement were noticed in individuals with Parkinson’s who engaged in a routine exercise program when compared with those who did not.

It’s important to mention that the results achieved were dependent upon consistent, ongoing exercise. The clinical tests reported that any protective benefits accomplished were discontinued when the amount and intensity of exercise was reduced or was implemented for only a brief period of time. The necessary criteria for sustainable results appear to be just like those essential to help those who’ve suffered a traumatic brain injury or stroke: intensity, specificity, difficulty and complexity.

Additional research is underway to hone in even more on the advantages of exercise in individuals with Parkinson’s disease, as well as the precise reasoning behind it. In the meantime, if your family member has been identified as having Parkinson’s disease, it’s useful to talk to his or her primary care physician for a recommended exercise routine.

For help with safe, dependable transportation and accompaniment to a doctor’s appointment or workout program, or encouragement and motivation to take part in a continuing exercise regimen at home, contact the at home caregivers in Santa Rosa and the surrounding areas from Hired Hands Homecare. You can reach our Santa Rosa office at 707-575-4700. Our professional in-home care services are available to boost quality of life for anyone with Parkinson’s disease, or another condition of aging. See our full service area here.