THE PARKINSON’S PERSPECTIVE Newsletter Volume 36, Issue 4
JULY/AUGUST 2016
Serving OR and S. WA
SUMMER EXPLORATION
by Holly Chaimov
“SUMMERTIME AND THE LIVING IS EASY” -- ISN’T THAT WHAT THE SONG SAYS? For many of us, just the idea of summer brings up a yearning for days on end with a relaxed schedule and more time for friends, family, and travel. Sounds lovely, doesn’t it? Yet our daily reality is one of staring Parkinson’s disease in the face. It is hard to envision and embrace a free and easy summer when you feel chained to an unforgiving medication schedule, caregiving needs, daily uncertainty about how you will feel, and possibly other limitations as well. Everything new — even having fun — can be made easier when broken down into small and manageable bits, and you don’t need to make a long-term commitment to just give something a try. We’d like to propose that each of you commits to exploring something new this summer to help expand your world, make new friends, give of yourself, or take steps toward a goal that has been on your “to-do” list for longer than you care to admit. Let’s start with exercise. By now, everyone knows how important it is. Yet just the other day at a support group, a show of hands suggested that most of the group members had yet to find a way to incorporate regular movement into their routine. Excuses abounded. “It is too expensive to join a gym.” “I tried a class, but it wasn’t convenient for me.” “I’m afraid I won’t be able to keep up, and I’ll feel embarrassed.” All legitimate
concerns, but each is surmountable with a little creative thinking and an approach that allows you to ease your way in. For example, taking a walk in a neighborhood park doesn’t cost anything, and certainly no one will be evaluating your speed or form! Walking can be done on your own schedule in all kinds of places. Best yet? No special equipment is required. Want to make it social? Invite a friend or consider one of the PRO-supported hikes occurring this summer in Eugene, Hillsboro, Portland, and Tualatin. (www.pro.eventbrite.com for info) One couple I’ve been impressed with for their willingness to try new things is Cork and Carolyn Higgins. Together they recognized an unmet need in their community, and started the Alternative & Supplemental Group in Lane County. With the group, they have explored new ideas and have tapped into technology (Skype) to expand presentation options. Now that the group is up, running, and stable, they’ve started looking at widening their involvement and will soon be organizing a trial run of pickleball for group members. Pickleball. Just the name makes me smile! I’m not sure how many group members already know the game, but I applaud all who are going to sign up and give it a try.
Here are a few other ideas you might want to explore: If you aren’t part of a support group, find out if your local group is hosting a summer picnic. Such a fun and informal way to feel out a group to see if it will be a good fit for you. Table tennis. Yes, I mean ping-pong! Both Eugene and Bend now have active, informal ping-pong gatherings — no prior experience or talent required. Get Smart from home. See page 2 for two upcoming online learning opportunities. Call your local library or community center. Ask if they have any volunteer needs. Reading to children is a great opportunity as it gives kids access to stories, and gives you a chance to practice with your voice. We would love to hear how you explore summer. Drop me a note at holly@ parkinsonsresources.org.
(Cork & Carolyn Higgins) JULY/AUGUST 2016
MORE INFO! (800) 426-6806 - WWW.PARKINSONSRESOURCES.ORG
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