Parkinson's Awareness Month:

There are many neurological diseases that cause memory loss and confusion. And that is why we have created several programs that address neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. This month is Parkinson’s Awareness Month, so we’ll take a deeper dive into this second-most common neurodegenerative disorder. Alzheimer’s being the first. Parkinson’s disease affects the nervous system of the human body, which limits a person's ability to control various muscles. It's caused by a slow, gradual loss of certain cells in the brain.

These cells make a chemical called dopamine, and this chemical is needed for muscles to work normal.

We have a special focus on a specific treatment method for patients living with Parkinson’s disease. By partnering with nationally recognized Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (or LSVT) many years ago, we are able to assist patients better than ever. LSVT is a method for improving both voice and speech in individuals with Parkinson’s disease, a problem often associated with the neurodegenerative disorder. LSVT offers expanded physical and occupational therapy methods to assist in specific needs of individuals with Parkinson’s as well as aging and other conditions. We have long implemented the LSVT LOUD for our hearing-needs patients and LSVT BIG for our physical-needs patients because this technology gives our nurses and physical therapists even greater tools. Those with Parkinson’s disease have reduced vocal loudness, sound monotone and often have hoarse or breathy voices. The LSVT LOUD technique, however, is a clinically proven method to improve not only vocal loudness, but also articulation. LSVT BIG is delivered by a physical or occupational therapist, and the program has proven to show marked

improvement in trunk rotation/gait, improved speed in upper/lower limbs; balance, and overall quality of life. We are constantly striving to provide our patients the very best care, and this is just one more tool that allows us to do just that.