Programs & Events
A diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a life altering experience. It not only affects the patient, but also impacts the spouse, children, extended family, friends and work relationships. The Parkinson Foundation understands the difficult physical and emotional issues that accompany this devastating disease. If you or someone you know has PD, the Parkinson Foundation Western Pennsylvania is here to help. In fact, for many people recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s, the Foundation is often the first call they make.
There is power in community and there are so many ways to become involved in our region’s Parkinson’s support resources. We invite you to join us for education, exercise, support group, or to make donation to the Parkinson Foundation of Western PA as we receive no monies from government agencies, insurance providers and are 100% self-funded.
Exercise
Living Well Starts Here
Become your own advocate to lead a healthier lifestyle. Exercise and nutrition are important for everyone; but especially those living with Parkinson’s as exercise has been proven to slow the progression of the disease.
What Type of Exercise Should I Do?
To help manage the symptoms of PD, be sure your exercise program includes a few key ingredients:
- Flexibility (stretching) exercises
- Aerobic activity
- Resistance training or strengthening exercises
These elements are included in many types of exercise. Biking, running, Tai chi, yoga, Pilates, dance, weight training, non-contact boxing, qi gong and more — all have positive effects on PD symptoms. Check out the various weekly exercise class offerings PFWPA provides below. Sign up today!
Step Up to your best life through exercise and proper nutrition. Why is it so important to stay active? Recent studies support the value of regular exercise in managing the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. In addition to enhancing physical abilities, exercise improves cognitive functions, overall mood, a sense of well-being. It can also help decrease depression. For most people with Parkinson’s disease, exercise can be an important tool for managing the disease.
Please contact Casey Peluso at (412) 837-2750 or [email protected] with questions or for additional information on exercise programs.
Exercise Classes:
The event list below shows a selection of popular virtual exercise groups. For the most up-to-date list, click the button above to download a complete list.
Map of In-Person Exercise Class Locations:
Support Groups
Parkinson Foundation Western Pennsylvania is at the center of one of the most active and supportive Parkinson’s communities in the country. To many people with PD and their caregivers, support groups are as essential to their treatment as any medical or pharmaceutical therapy. Although it’s true that a support group cannot help relieve a tremor, restore movement or regain balance, it’s just as true that no drug or medical intervention can hold a hand, give a smile of encouragement or say “I understand.”
Each support group is unique. They have many different meeting formats and focuses, determined by the individuals who belong to each group. All, however, share a strong sense of community and fellowship. Members are free to come just as they are and to participate as they wish. Much encouragement is offered, along with a sincere understanding that the range of membership is as broad as the range of symptoms throughout the disease’s progression.
Virtual Support Groups:
The event list below shows a selection of popular virtual support groups. For the most up-to-date list, click the button above to download a complete list.
In-Person Support Groups:
The event list below shows a selection of popular in-person support groups. For the most up-to-date list, click the button above to download a complete list.
Map of Support Group Locations: