Indiana Parkinson Foundation is committed to giving people with Parkinson's disease their lives back through active engagement in The CLIMB. The CLIMB exercise program allows opportunity for physical recovery and prevention, and leaves room for reflection and connection to renew people with Parkinson's disease for the work and pressures of their daily lives. Our talented trainers, helpers and volunteers provide a welcoming, caring and relaxed atmosphere. It is a place for people with Parkinson's disease to mentally, physically and spiritually fight the effects of Parkinson's disease. Indiana Parkinson Foundation is a 501c3 organization and any donations are fully tax-deductible.
What is The Climb?
The Climb is a program that provides a unique exercise and support system which focuses on providing physical exercise and activities which helps to improve the daily lives of people with Parkinson’s Disease through their physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing.
Who started The Climb?
The Climb was formed in 2009 by the Waterman family. Don Waterman was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, and he along with his family had a desire to do “something” in order to bring awareness to the disease as well as offer support to others with the same concerns, questions and fears. They wanted to climb toward empowering themselves in understanding and managing Parkinson’s Disease!
What types of programs does The Climb offer?
The climb offers BIG Movement, PWR! Classes, Postural Therapy and Balance, Yoga, Dance, Massage Therapy, Speech Therapy, and Weight Training. The program is always growing, developing and incorporating new activities and exercises.
Does The Climb provide support groups?
The Climb advocates for any local Parkinson support groups available in the area, which our members often attend. The Climb also provides nutritional information and support on a daily to weekly basis through healthy recipes and tips on how to utilize specific types of foods and spices.
Why is The Climb program effective?
The Climb program is effective because it focuses on Parkinson’s Disease from a group and individual basis. Each client is offered opportunities to participate in various activities and/or exercises weekly that are geared towards common Parkinson’s symptoms as well as individual treatment, assessment and programming which focuses attention on each client’s personal struggles and deficits. At The Climb, we understand that each client comes with their own set of strengths and weaknesses, but that bringing a group dynamic increases morale and provides unique support for people with Parkinson’s.
How is The Climb program different from other general exercise programs?
The Climb differs from other general exercise programs as it provides each client with not only group based exercise but also individual treatment, assessment and programming. This provides each person with Parkinson’s Disease and their caregivers the opportunity to work directly with trained professionals to develop an appropriate and effective exercise program to address their specific deficits and weaknesses present. They then can carry what they are learned at The Climb into their functional, everyday life.
Is there medical evidence that demonstrates that exercise is beneficial?
There are several published articles, news clips and research that demonstrate the various benefits of the types of exercises that The Climb offers for those with Parkinson’s Disease. Some examples include the following:
Exercise Research from the National Parkinson Foundation
Neuroprotective Benefits of Exercise for PD:http://www.parkinson.org/understanding-parkinsons/treatment/Exercise/Neuroprotective-Benefits-of-Exercise
General information about Exercise and Parkinsons: http://www.parkinson.org/understanding-parkinsons/newly-diagnosed/get-moving
The Climb in the News
Here is a very short video highlighting the Climb exercise program, you will see briefly some of the exercises which are incorporated into the program: http://www.indianaparkinson.org/blogs/news/posts/featured-on-wrtv6-program-helps-push-through-parkinson-s-pain
Other News Related to Parkinson's and Exercise http://www.postandcourier.com/article/20150818/PC1211/150819433
Our classes incorporate as much as possible movements that improve daily life functionality but also engage in the Neuroprotective elements cited by the National Parkinson Foundation. We incorporate exercises from Delay the Disease (http://www.delaythedisease.com/), Parkinson Wellness Recovery (http://www.pwr4life.org/), and LSVT Big and Loud (http://www.lsvtglobal.com/).
What are the qualifications and training of The Climb trainers?
All trainers at The Climb are certified in their field of interest, which may include Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Physical Therapy, Personal Training, Yoga Instruction, Dance Instruction, etc. Trainers also have the opportunity to complete training with our Clinical Education Manager who is also available daily to provide guidance and instruction. Furthermore, continuing education opportunities are encouraged and offered to all trainers.
Can I visit and observe a class prior to participating?
We absolutely encourage anyone, including family members, interested in The Climb services to observe classes prior to participation. Click here for our locations and class times: https://indianaparkinson.evrconnect.com/the-climb/
When and where are The Climb classes conducted?
The Climb is offered at several locations which allows for our clients to select a location that is closest to their home. Click here for a list of current locations: https://indianaparkinson.evrconnect.com/the-climb/. The organization continues to grow so always be sure to check our website for new locations. If there is not a location close to your home, please reach out to us as we would like to expand our program to better serve you!
When do I have the option to participate in classes and how often must I participate?
At The Climb, you as a member have the opportunity to participate in unlimited classes each month. You have the option to come when you want and are available. We encourage at least 2 classes per week, but also understand that there can be limitations and promote any and all participation! Each Climb location has their own schedule. For a list of days and times, click here: https://indianaparkinson.evrconnect.com/the-climb/
Can anyone with Parkinson’s Disease, given age and stage, participate?
The Climb absolutely does not discriminate against age or disease stage. We gladly accept and encourage any person and their caregiver to participate at The Climb. The Climb also understands that those with Parkinson’s Disease are also often struggling with other diagnoses, which we are equipped to recognize and address.
What should I wear to classes?
There is no dress code at the climb. We do suggest that proper tennis shoes with good support are worn and recommend comfortable, loose fitting clothing as the exercises involve various movements.
Is there a charge to participate in classes?
There is a cost to the Climb program, which varies by location. We make every effort to be sure the program is affordable, and in some locations silver sneaker programs or other forms of insurance reimbursement are available.
Do I need a physician’s order to participate?
We DO require a physician’s release before clients can register at the Climb. Each client’s physician must sign off that they are safe and appropriate to participate in The Climb. We encourage physicians to refer appropriate clients as they deem necessary as well as promote our clients to share their progress with their physicians and other medical professionals.