Teachers Respond: To Parkinson’s Question

In response to Carol Lesch’s question in the winter issue with regard to teaching techniques for Parkinson’s patients:

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Sharon Sirkis of Columbia, MD writes — I have been teaching seated TCC at Deerfield Senior Services, an adult daycare center near me. Florence, 88 years old, has Parkinson’s. Although physically I have noticed less shakiness in her hands, I am much more aware of the changes in her emotional state. Before TCC, I ask everyone to say their name. Then I ask in a word or two, to tell me how they feel. I usually get responses of “fine,” “tired,” “OK.” Florence, who usually speaks very little and has a vacant stare most of the time, said, “half and half!” The whole group laughed, and Florence’s face lit up with a big smile. After TCC, we sometimes chat while waiting for lunch. I may read a poem or have the group do a big belly laugh. Sometimes I ask them to tell me about the “good old days.” This seemed to be the key that unlocked the door for Florence. During one class, she became very animated (smiling with teeth showing and arms moving about). She was very excited as she told the group about feeding a meter in the kitchen 25 cents in order to have electricity to cook. … She talked so much, as if someone had activated a switch. As I left, I put my hand on her shoulder, and thanked her for my “education.” She told me “all you have to do is touch the keystone.” She stretched up from her wheelchair (I thought she was going to whisper something in my ear) and gave me a kiss! It was a very touching moment.

I was also touched by Florence after last week’s class. I was thinking out loud “let’s see–what can we talk about today?” Florence spoke up–“how about a belly laugh?” I was surprised since Florence doesn’t usually talk unless spoken to. Also, we hadn’t belly laughed in a while, and sometimes it makes her cough. Nonetheless, she enjoys doing it! We raised our arms, we moved our bodies, we opened our mouths, and let the laughter fly. Truly–Joy Thru Movement!

Roberta Taggart, Cupertino, CA writes – Parkinson’s patients in the beginning and intermediate stages of their illness can benefit greatly from T’ai Chi Chih, and they can participate in a group class stressing balance and coordination. It is most important for them to learn to control their gait. Some may need assistance such as a supportive bar when shifting weight at first until strength is gained. Loosening up or warming up in a seated position may be advantageous before moving for this special population.

Barbara Riley, Orinda, CA writes –

Bill walked into my class one day, saying that he had Parkinson’s disease, and knew that as it progressed he would lose balance; he hoped that doing T’ai Chi would help. Now that he has been coming to class and practicing regularly at home for eighteen months, I asked him what improvements he perceived. He replied that not only his balance has improved, but also the ability of his mind to control his muscles, which the disease affects. This devastating disease also at times causes depression, and the practice alleviates this. Bill said that he finds watching Justin on tape is inspiring.