To mark World Parkinson’s Day (11 April), Inverness Leisure is hosting an afternoon of free activities for people in the Highlands who are living with Parkinson’s, including the introduction of a brand new class.
Parkinson’s Beat – a form of cardio-drumming – is set to become a regular fixture on the programme at Inverness Leisure. Exercise drumming can help improve muscle tone, strength, balance and coordination as well as help people to think more clearly, by giving them practice in matching rhythm to movement, and learning and repeating patterns. This new class takes place every Wednesday from 12.45pm – 1.45pm
People will be given the opportunity to try Parkinson’s Beat as part of the open afternoon at Inverness Leisure, which takes place in Studio 3 from 1.30pm – 3.30pm on Friday 11 April. There will also be taster classes in Parkinson’s exercises with zumba shakers, exercises with pilates balls and various games. There will also be a chance to chat with others over tea, coffee and baking.
NHS Highland estimates that there are around 600 people in the Highland area living with Parkinson’s and there are thought to be around 13,000 across the whole of Scotland. Parkinson’s is the fastest growing neurological condition in the world and happens when the brain cells that make dopamine start to die. There are more than 40 different symptoms associated with Parkinson’s including a tremor, pain, issues with balance, difficulty sleeping and anxiety.
It is now well understood that doing exercise can help people live better with Parkinson’s. As well as helping people to manage and take control of their symptoms, specially designed classes can keep people connected and allow them to share experiences.
High Life Highland has been providing ongoing support for participants of Parkinson’s exercise programmes across the Highlands for several years, working closely with NHS Highland to ensure that people affected by Parkinson’s have a choice of ways to keep active.
Eilidh Maclean, Activities Development Officer at High Life Highland said: “We are looking forward to welcoming some new, as well as regular faces to this special Parkinson’s session on World Parkinson’s Day at Inverness Leisure. It’s free to attend and is set to be really beneficial and enjoyable for participants. Working in partnership with NHS Highland, we are keen to support people living with Parkinson’s to help manage their symptoms and to stay active as long as possible.”
Sharon Sutherland, Parkinson’s Nurse with NHS Highland said: “It is great to see the collaborative work we have with High Life Highland, the exercise sessions on offer and Friday are a celebration of this. I hope everyone has a great time.”
For more information please go here Parkinson’s Exercise – High Life Highland / email parkinsonsexercise@highlifehighland.com / call 01463 667500.
