This week is Parkinson’s Awareness Week. Did you know that to live well with the disease it’s important to increase muscle strength, improve balance, co-ordination and flexibility.It’s also widely recognised that regular exercise through walking is extremely beneficial for people with Parkinson’s.
Keeping the brain stimulated and regular socialising are other important considerations when helping people live well with the disease.
This is why golf is a perfect pastime for families living with Parkinson’s. The combination of physical exercise, mental stimulation and social interaction in beautiful natural surroundings is excellent therapy.
I think this is why our first ever Parkinson’s Golf Day was such an instant hit last week.
People quickly realised how their balance, co-ordination and confidence increased when they learnt to putt & chip a golf ball.
The friendships created as we formed teams of golf club members, people with Parkinson’s and their carers was a joy to behold.
Two guys used to play cricket for Yorkshire and were re-united again after 20 years!!! To hear the laughter, to see the smiles and witness everyone enjoying themselves was priceless.
It made us realise that golf can facilitate helping people with Parkinson’s live happier & healthier lives. The other benefit of the day was that it provided much-needed respite for carers – who are often desperate for support.
Following the success of the first session, our intention is to run regular sessions for those who want golf in their life every week as well as a monthly “Big Social Golf Day” where friends, family and carers can join in.
