Parkinson's Programming (No Laughing Matter)

It is our privilege to be able to offer members of our community and the community-at-large our unique Parkinson's Programming to those with this debilitating disease—a disease afflicting as many as one million Americans.

Parkinson's Laughter Club
Among the most noticeable characteristics of Parkinson's disease is a "mask-like" facial expression and loss of voice strength. The Laughter Club uses interactive group exercises as well as one-to-one activities to engage facial expressions and elicit expressions such as shock or joy. These are frequently combined with breathing, tongue and lip exercises and vocal intonation practice with the support of our Music Therapist. Telling jokes and having fun is, of course, a mainstay of the club, as is enjoyment of greater camaraderie.

Participation in the Laughter Club is free to persons with Parkinson's disease. The Laughter Club meets every Monday and Thursday at 11a.m. in The Ponds.

Parkinson's Aquatic Program
Our indoor therapy pool offers a warm-water, quiet, therapeutic atmosphere. The Physical Therapy staff assists participants in stretching exercises and a warm-up period to assist with muscle rigidity followed by water-walking using various patterns to promote increased balance. Persons living with Parkinson's disease are buoyed by the force of the water, and are able to engage in the activities at an increased level.

Participants state that they have experienced increased energy, better balance and greater independence in self care. Participation in The Wealshire/Ponds Parkinson Aquatic Program is open to the community at a nominal fee. For dates, times and more information contact: alundquist@wealshireponds.com or call 847-883-9000 ext. 611.

A Bit About Laughter Clubs
The idea of laughter clubs was the brain child of renowned physician Dr. Madan Katarie, well known author and physician in India. Dr. Katarie knew the benefits of laughter to affect the physical, mental, social and spiritual well-being of the ill. There is considerable documented evidence that laughter fights off the effects of stress and enhances the immune system and creates a positive attitude towards life in general.

So in March of 1995 Dr. Katarie gathered 4 people in a corner of a park in India and there began a concept of laughter clubs that is followed throughout the world. Laughter clubs have been formed in 53 countries and there are now over 5,000 clubs world wide.

We are proud to carry on the tradition of Dr. Katarie utilizing these proven concepts and integrating them into our own Laughter Club, helping our residents and others in the community to use humor to help face life's problems.

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