Parkinson’s disease is a complex neurological condition that affects more than just movement, it can influence speech, mood, balance, and even cognitive function. While medication plays a vital role in symptom management, many individuals and their families find the most significant relief and improvements in quality of life through complementary approaches.
At Kensington Park, we go beyond medication to offer comprehensive, holistic Parkinson’s care, supporting the whole person – body, mind, and spirit. By integrating rehabilitation therapies, emotional support, and lifestyle-based interventions into our care model, we help residents manage symptoms and live each day with greater comfort and confidence.
This article explores the innovative therapies we offer, how they work in harmony with clinical care, and why families trust our comprehensive approach to supporting individuals with Parkinson’s disease.
Understanding Parkinson’s: More Than Motor Symptoms
Parkinson’s disease is most often associated with tremors and rigidity, but it affects individuals in a wide variety of ways. Some may experience slowed movement or changes in posture, while others struggle more with speech, swallowing, or mood changes like depression and anxiety.
Because symptoms can evolve and appear unpredictably, successful Parkinson’s care requires flexibility, creativity, and personal attention. That’s where Kensington Park’s team-based model truly shines.
Rather than relying solely on prescriptions, we develop a dynamic care plan tailored to the resident’s changing needs, drawing on both clinical insight and therapeutic innovation.
A Holistic Approach to Parkinson’s Care
Our goal is to help residents with Parkinson’s maintain their independence, confidence, and joy in daily life. To achieve this, we offer a blend of evidence-based therapies and wellness experiences that support both the physical and emotional aspects of the condition.
Elements of our holistic Parkinson’s care include:
- Physical, occupational, and speech therapy delivered onsite
- Targeted exercise programs focused on balance, gait, and flexibility
- Nutritional support to manage weight, digestion, and energy
- Stress reduction techniques such as meditation, massage, and guided breathing
- Emotional support and counseling for residents and their families
- Enrichment activities that stimulate cognition and social connection
These therapies are not isolated, they’re carefully integrated into each resident’s routine, reviewed regularly, and adjusted based on outcomes.
Onsite Rehabilitation for Strength and Safety
One of the most powerful components of our Parkinson’s support is our access to rehabilitation services right on campus.
Residents can receive physical, occupational, and speech therapy without leaving their home environment, allowing for greater consistency and less fatigue.
These therapies can help:
- Improve strength, posture, and endurance
- Enhance fine motor coordination and hand control
- Support speech clarity and facial muscle engagement
- Strengthen swallowing to reduce aspiration risk
- Reinforce balance to prevent falls and promote confidence
Because our therapists work closely with our nursing team and care coordinators, the residents’ progress is continuously monitored and celebrated.
Daily Movement and Targeted Fitness
Exercise is more than physical upkeep for those living with Parkinson’s, it’s a proven tool for slowing the progression of symptoms and improving neurological function.
At Kensington Park, residents benefit from:
- Balance-focused fitness classes tailored to their needs
- Seated movement sessions for those with limited mobility
- Walking groups to promote endurance and social connection
- Gentle yoga or Tai Chi to support coordination and relaxation
Every program is adapted to the individual’s abilities and comfort level. These are not one-size-fits-all sessions; they are carefully tailored and guided by professionals who have a deep understanding of Parkinson’s.
The Emotional Impact of Parkinson’s
Living with Parkinson’s can be frustrating, isolating, and emotionally draining, both for the person diagnosed and for their family. Depression and anxiety are common side effects of the condition, especially as mobility or communication abilities change.
That’s why emotional wellness is a core part of our holistic care model. Our team offers:
- Private counseling
- Group support opportunities
- Art, music, and spiritual expression
- Reminiscence therapy
- Scheduled time for conversation and connection
We also support families by offering education and ongoing communication, so they feel informed, encouraged, and involved in their loved one’s journey.
Explore the Parkinson’s Foundation’s guide to over-the-counter and complementary therapies to discover how holistic approaches can support life with Parkinson’s beyond prescription medications.
Collaborative Care Planning
Every resident with Parkinson’s has a unique experience of the disease. That’s why we create a personalized care plan built with input from multiple team members, including nurses, therapists, wellness coordinators, and life enrichment specialists.
Care plans may include:
- Medication schedules and monitoring
- Safety and fall-prevention strategies
- Personalized therapy goals
- Nutrition and hydration plans
- Participation in enrichment programming
- Family check-ins and communication preferences
As symptoms progress or plateau, our team adapts the plan accordingly, ensuring no resident feels left behind in their care journey.
Living Fully with Parkinson’s at Kensington Park
What makes our approach different is the commitment to seeing each resident as a whole person, not just a condition. Many of our residents living with Parkinson’s continue to enjoy meaningful routines, friendships, hobbies, and moments of accomplishment.
We support residents in rediscovering their strengths and regaining confidence, whether that means joining a gardening group, participating in a guided movement class, or simply enjoying lunch with friends in a welcoming setting.
Our assisted living community offers the perfect balance of independence and support, featuring 24/7 licensed nursing and access to therapies just steps away.
With the right support system in place, residents often discover new ways to stay engaged, build resilience, and find moments of joy in their daily lives.
A Place of Care, Connection, and Progress
If someone you love is living with Parkinson’s, know that you’re not alone, and that there are care options that honor both their health and their humanity.
Kensington Park offers holistic Parkinson’s care that goes beyond medication, helping residents move, speak, smile, and thrive in their own time and way.
We invite you to contact us to learn more or schedule a tour. We’re here to answer your questions, listen to your story, and support your next steps with warmth and clarity.