Exercise Classes

Our exercise classes are led by instructors with experience and knowledge in the field of movement disorders. Exercises focus on coordination, balance, strength and endurance.  Classes are appropriate for all stages of PD and partners are welcomed to attend.

Dance for Movement Disorders

Dance for Movement Disorders is offered free to individuals with movement disorders. Dance has been shown to help with coordination and balance, while having fun.

Exercise Classes - Move. Laugh. Connect. (MLC) Certification

In 2021, DAPS exercise instructors completed the Move. Laugh. Connect. (MLC) certification. 

MLC is an advanced certification available to fitness professionals who work with older adults. This comprehensive program was designed by Charles and Susan Sterling, leaders in the fitness industry at the Cooper Clinic in Dallas, Tx for many years. Not only are they experts in the field of fitness but they understand firsthand the impact of Parkinson’s disease on a daily basis, since Charles' diagnosis of PD several years ago.

Their uniquely designed program addresses the physical, social and cognitive elements for older adults, making it an ideal program for anyone impacted by PD. Both instructors and participants receive a bound manual with illustrations for balance and strength exercises, among many other important pieces of information to help one live life to the fullest. 

Thanks to funding from Supernus, DAPS exercise instructors are able to bring MLC to the DAPS community.

Speech Classes

According to the Parkinson Disease Foundation, nearly 90% of people with Parkinson's disease will develop speaking problems. Most notably, their volume of speech decreases, and they may develop a hoarse or monotone voice. Our therapists and group leaders follow these methods in order to help our speech therapy attendees strengthen their voices and regain their confidence in speaking. 

DAPS helps to support non-contact boxing classes, which exercise the body and the brain to help build core strength and improve cognition.  To learn more, contact us at daps@daps.org.

Our care partner support groups are for spouses, family and friends who have a loved one with PD.  Groups are led by trained professionals and offer resources, guidance and knowledge as it pertains to chronic illness.

Join us monthly for our Educational Series, where specialists in the movement disorder field provide information, resources, and education to help live life fully with Parkinson’s disease.