Music therapy helps people with Parkinson's

FALLBROOK – The Fallbrook Parkinson’s Support group will hold their monthly meeting, Friday, Aug. 26 from 10 a.m. to noon. Kathleen Hansen, Director of North County Tremble Clefs will be the guest speaker. She will be sharing about music therapy and how singing offers natural therapeutic value for many of the voice symptoms associated with Parkinson's disease.

Singing also provides the focus for a group of people with Parkinson's, and their partners, to share in a joyful activity and work toward a common goal.

The Tremble Clefs Program establishes singing groups with these primary benefits. Focus is on utilizing good breathing practice, louder voice volume and wider pitch range; thus addressing some of the most serious voice symptoms found in people with Parkinson's.

Participation in a Tremble Clefs singing program can help overcome these problems through breathing, stretching and posture activities, vocal exercise, rhythm and movement, and a strong social support system. The benefits are enjoyed by those both with and without previous singing experience.

Research has shown that vocal exercise enhances voice volume in people with Parkinson's, and that the presence of music and rhythm improves movement. Singing can be both physically and emotionally invigorating, especially when experienced with others who share the same motivation and enthusiasm.

The program will be followed by a time of sharing, coffee and refreshments. The meeting is held in support of people with Parkinson's, caregivers and people interested in improving the world those affected by Parkinson's.

The meeting will be held in the Fellowship Hall of Christ the King Lutheran Church, 1620 S. Stage Coach Lane. The meetings are held the fourth Friday of each month.

For more information, call Irene at (760) 731-0171 or Linda at (760) 728-4604.