In 2020, the United States bore a significant economic burden of $51.9 billion due to Parkinson's disease (PD), a progressive neurological disorder. By 2040, the projected number of people with PD worldwide is anticipated to reach 17.5 million. Recognizing the profound impact and challenges faced by those living with this condition, Memorial Healthcare System has taken a proactive stance by developing comprehensive rehabilitation programs aimed at enhancing mobility, communication, and overall well-being.

Empowering Lives with Parkinson's Rehabilitation at Memorial

LSVT LOUD: Transforming Speech for PD Patients

Patients with Parkinson's often encounter difficulties such as reduced vocal loudness, hoarseness, monotone voices, and imprecise articulation. These issues can lead to social isolation and a decline in quality of life. The LSVT LOUD program focuses on "think loud" techniques, encouraging participants to project their voices and engage in exercises that emphasize breath support, pitch variation, and articulation. Through intensive training over a period of four weeks, with 16 sessions each lasting an hour, patients learn to increase vocal intensity and intelligibility. This not only helps them regain confidence in their speech but also enables them to communicate more effectively with others.For instance, one patient, Mr. Johnson, who had been struggling with speech difficulties due to Parkinson's, participated in the LSVT LOUD program. After completing the sessions, he noticed a significant improvement in his vocal loudness and clarity. He was able to engage in conversations more freely and felt a renewed sense of self-confidence.

LSVT BIG: Revolutionizing Physical Function for PD

LSVT BIG is a tailored physical and occupational therapy program that focuses on improving mobility, motor function, and independence in daily activities. Based on the principles of neuroplasticity, this program emphasizes large, exaggerated amplitude-based movements, high intensity, and repetitive task-specific activities. Through these exercises, patients enhance strength, balance, coordination, gait, endurance, and agility.For example, Mrs. Thompson, who had been experiencing difficulties with mobility and motor function, enrolled in the LSVT BIG program. After a few weeks, she noticed a remarkable improvement in her ability to perform daily activities such as walking, reaching, and getting in and out of bed. The program not only helped her regain physical function but also gave her a newfound sense of independence.

Overall Exercise Regimen for PD

In addition to the specialized LSVT programs, Memorial Healthcare System promotes a comprehensive exercise regimen tailored to the specific needs of PD patients. Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining strength, flexibility, and endurance. The rehabilitation team incorporates various forms of exercise, including mobility and balance exercises, to create a well-rounded program that supports overall health.For instance, Mr. Davis, who had been following the exercise regimen at Memorial Healthcare System, noticed a significant improvement in his overall physical condition. He had more energy, better balance, and was able to participate in more activities with his family.

Post-Rehab Support: Combined BIG for LIFE and LOUD for LIFE

Donors to Memorial Foundation have funded a free weekly LSVT group exercise class titled "Combined BIG for LIFE and LOUD for LIFE" for PD patients who have completed the LSVT LOUD and/or LSVT BIG programs. This class continues to support, motivate, and help patients maintain the gains achieved during rehabilitation.For example, Mrs. Wilson, who had completed the LSVT programs, attended the post-rehab group exercise class. She found the class to be a great way to stay connected with other patients and continue her progress. The support and motivation she received from the class helped her maintain her improved physical and speech functions.Memorial Healthcare System's Parkinson's rehabilitation programs, including LSVT LOUD, LSVT BIG, and the post-rehab free group exercise class, demonstrate a firm commitment to enhancing the lives of PD patients. By combining research-based therapies with compassionate care, the team at Memorial is dedicated to helping patients overcome limitations and regain control over their lives.Memorial Healthcare System includes Memorial Regional Hospital and Memorial Regional Hospital South in Hollywood, FL, which has been ranked a US News & World Report 2024-2025 Best Hospital for Rehabilitation. For more information, visit Memorial Healthcare System Parkinson Disease Therapy.