While Parkinson’s disease is known for the tremor it causes, it also disturbs walking, eating, speaking and swallowing. While it hits more people over 60 and more men than women, it can affect anyone of any age, sex or race and it interferes with daily life.

So, what do you do if you are diagnosed with Parkinson’s. There are medications that help, but there are also things you can do yourself to push back. Mountain Valley Regional Rehabilitation Hospital offers a free workshop at 4 pm every Wednesday where licensed therapists teach you to help yourself.

The first and third Wednesdays of each month focus on movement. Parkinson’s wants the body to pull into itself and to walk with small steps or a shuffle. Once aware of that, you can make your body walk in big steps and more your body more confidently. But you have to be aware to do that and the class does that. You will see people walking with big steps and swinging their arms in exaggerated motions just to show their body that they can do it.

The second and fourth Wednesdays focus on speech. People with Parkinson’s often speak with a low monotone voice. During those sessions, you will see people shouting and varying their voice, again just to show their body that they can do it.

The workshop is open to all that show up. There are many benefits to group therapy. Seeing others with the same issues helps you to learn and you might learn a trick or two from another patient. You might even make new friends.

Participating requires no more than showing up and signing in. Walk in the front door of Mountain Valley Rehab at 3700 N. Windsong Dr. in Prescott Valley about 3:45 pm on a Wednesday. Ask for the Parkinson’s sign-up sheet, sign in and take a seat. At 4 pm they will lead everyone back to the workout area and for the next hour everyone will be doing things to help them get control of their daily lives. For more info, call Erin Aafedt, Candice Stone, or Nicole Ahles at 928-775-7877 or email erinaafedt@ernesthealth.com or candicestone@ernesthealth.com