Thanks to a federal government grant it has received from the New Horizons for Seniors Program, the Cummings Jewish Centre for Seniors (CJCS) is pleased to announce a unique program for seniors with Parkinson's disease. In conjunction with partners at the Parkinson's Society of Quebec and both McGill and Concordia Universities, CJCS is developing a multi-faceted program intended to re-integrate participants into community life.

Based on the science and practice of Big and Loud , which was developed at the University of Arizona , this innovative program will offer an individual with Parkinson's disease the opportunity to enjoy music and movement classes in a highly social environment. Designed to improve the quality of life of these individuals, the program will give participants the opportunity to participate in social outings as well as maintain or increase mobility through dance movements and stimulate vocal use through song.

“Exercise for individuals affected by Parkinson's is extremely important to offset the advancement of the disease,” noted Stefani Novick, who will coordinate the program at CJCS. “In general, you cannot altogether stop the disease but you can address its symptoms. More importantly we are offering a social environment for those who might otherwise withdraw.”