Parkinson’s Support
The STEP Program at Youville House
Youville House specializes in supporting residents challenged with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Youville’s STEP Program is a holistic approach to Parkinson’s care that incorporates “four pillars” – support, training of staff, education, and physical movement. View STEP brochure >
What is Parkinson’s?
Parkinson’s disease, a neurological condition that affects motor skills and movement, can alter life on many levels. As symptoms progress, people with Parkinson’s experience physical and emotional obstacles that can interfere with their independence and can eventually pose serious safety risks.
As many as one million Americans live with Parkinson’s, which is more than the number of people diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy and Lou Gehrig’s disease combined. Approximately 60,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson’s each year, and this number does not reflect the thousands of cases that go undetected. The incidence of Parkinson’s increases with age, but an estimated 4% of people with PD are diagnosed before 50 years old. Men are 1.5 times more likely to have Parkinson’s than women.
Youville: An Ideal Solution for Those Living with Parkinson’s
Living with Parkinson’s can be challenging. For many people living with Parkinson’s, being a part of a supportive community with resources such as medication management, home-cooked, nutritionally balanced meals, and specialized programs supporting balance and muscle tone contributes to a more independent lifestyle and a higher quality of life.
Youville House has become home to many residents with Parkinson’s. Located in the center of Cambridge, just minutes away from Harvard Square, Youville draws from its vibrant urban environment to offer various stimulating events and activities. A full calendar of events and activities, along with daily exercise programs such as tai chi, yoga, and daily strength and balance classes, help residents nurture mind, body and spirit. In addition, Youville is host to the only Parkinson’s Support Group in Cambridge.
To request more information or schedule a visit or conversation with one of our experienced professionals contact us. All information is kept strictly confidential.
Useful Links
- 10 Early Warning Signs of Parkinson’s Disease, National Parkinson’s Disease Foundation
- American Parkinson Disease Association
- Finding a Care Manager