Corporate Fitness and Active Aging

Regular exercise is incredibly beneficial for people with Parkinson’s disease (PD). It helps manage symptoms like stiffness, gait issues, posture, and balance deficiencies. Individual exercises can build into complex movement patterns, eventually evolving into activities such as dancing, yoga, and boxing. Since PD presents itself uniquely in each person, no two exercise programs will look the same. A personalized plan that takes into account both the individual’s daily needs and the activities they enjoy most will have the greatest impact on improving their quality of life.

Guidelines for a Parkinson’s-specific program recommend three 30-minute sessions per week that include cardiovascular work, strength training, and a preferred activity (yoga, boxing, tai chi, etc.). Training balance, posture, and flexibility should happen daily if possible. Cardiovascular exercise enhances motor function and cognitive abilities, while strength training slows disease progression and improves dopamine efficiency in the brain. Regular balance, posture, and flexibility work promotes better mobility, and a person’s favorite activity helps them apply these skills in a fun and challenging way.

Do it for the moves and the mood! Getting heart rates into the target zone (50-80% of maximum) has been shown to improve executive function, speed of processing, and memory. High-intensity exercise can slow neurodegeneration and, in many cases, even reverse the effects of PD. Cardiovascular exercise can be done with cardio equipment, but it can also be combined with balance, strength, and reflexive movements found in activities like dancing, boxing, or ping pong. This creates a combination of benefits that also boosts mood.

Do it big and with gusto! High-energy movements, challenging sequences, and the ability to adapt in real-time are key. But make room for proper rest and resets throughout. It's important to celebrate achievements along the way and remember—there are no mistakes for someone with Parkinson’s, only opportunities to adjust and discover new ways to move. The brain is always rerouting itself through neuroplasticity.

Movement, sleep, and repair go hand in hand. Exercising regularly in the described style promotes better sleep, allowing the body to repair itself. This includes clearing away brain accumulations, releasing growth hormones to build strength, and reinforcing learning that leads to greater movement efficacy and confidence. Understanding the connection between exercise, sleep, and repair is crucial. Adding an evening ritual of breathwork and flexibility exercises can help maximize the benefits of movement and improve overall wellbeing.

Step up for a cause! Join us Thursday, April 10, for Pump It for Parkinson’s. Together, we can reach 25 million steps in support of those living with Parkinson’s disease. Don’t miss out—register today and help us make a difference!

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At NIFS, we believe in the power of movement. That’s why our partnership with NuStep has become an integral part of NIFS Pump It for Parkinson’s, a nationwide initiative that raises awareness about Parkinson’s Disease (PD) while inspiring communities to take meaningful steps (literally and figuratively) toward better health.

Every April, during Parkinson’s Awareness Month, Pump It for Parkinson’s unites communities across the nation on a shared mission to highlight the critical role exercise plays in managing PD symptoms. At the heart of this event is the NuStep cross trainer, a machine that has not only become a hallmark of our program but also a gateway for residents to rediscover the joy of movement.

For many residents, the NuStep offers a level of approachability and ease that makes starting or returning to exercise possible. Its seated, low-impact design eliminates the barriers that often discourage seniors from engaging in fitness, especially those managing mobility challenges or chronic conditions.

In one community, a resident who had never stepped foot in the fitness center joined Pump It for Parkinson’s because of a PD diagnosis, and quickly discovered how enjoyable and empowering regular movement could be. Stories like this remind us why the NuStep is so much more than a piece of equipment, but also a bridge to better fitness.

The beauty of Pump It for Parkinson’s is its flexibility. The NuStep serves as the cornerstone of the event, but we encourage communities to build on it in ways that engage their residents and staff:

• Organizing a community-wide 1k walk event.
• Highlighting Group Fitness Classes: From cardio drumming to dance classes, we’ve seen communities get creative by adding group activities that complement the NuStep challenge.
• Inclusive Opportunities: Every step counts when building awareness, so we offer step-conversion charts and alternative activities like walking, biking, or using the elliptical trainer.

Parkinson’s Disease affects more than 10 million people worldwide, including many in the senior living communities we serve. Exercise has been shown to slow the progression of PD symptoms, improve balance and coordination, and enhance overall quality of life. By combining education with action, Pump It for Parkinson’s sheds light on these benefits while fostering a culture of wellness and inclusivity.

Throughout the event, communities host educational booths, share resources about PD, and invite residents and staff to learn more about how they can support those living with the disease. This blend of awareness and activity is what makes the program so impactful.

In 2024, participants nationwide achieved over 18 million steps, and this year, we’re aiming even higher and know we can meet our 25 million step goal. The impact of this program goes far beyond the numbers. Residents gain confidence, friendships blossom, and communities come together in ways that inspire lasting change. We’re proud to offer this event which has become hallmark for many senior living communities and invite you to join us in making 2025 our most impactful year yet!

Join us for Pump It for Parkinson's this April and help us bring awareness nationwide to the benefits of exercise for those living with Parkinson's Disease.

Learn More: Pump It for Parkinson's

Aging gracefully starts with the right nutrients! Good health doesn’t happen by chance—it requires proactive choices. Nutrition is important for every generation, but it becomes even more critical as we age. As we grow older, our nutritional needs change, and understanding what’s essential can make all the difference in staying active, healthy, and full of energy. In this blog, we will discuss why your nutritional needs change with age, key nutrients to focus on, and easy ways to incorporate them into your life.

As we age, our bodies undergo changes that affect metabolism, digestion, and nutrient absorption, making it essential to adjust our diets accordingly. With a slower metabolism, fewer calories are needed to fuel our bodies, but lower calorie needs don’t mean fewer vitamins and nutrients. In fact, the opposite is true. Aging actually increases the demand for certain essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, aging bones, muscles, and joints require extra support.

Let’s take a look at 5 of the most important nutrients we need to start incorporating into our diet.

Vitamin B12

If you’ve been feeling more fatigued lately, low B12 levels could be the culprit. This vitamin plays a key role in energy production and brain function. B12 is found in foods like meat, fish, dairy, and eggs. If you have a hard time consuming these foods, a supplement may be your best option.

Calcium and Vitamin D

Without adequate calcium and Vitamin D, even strong bones gradually weaken over time. These nutrients are crucial for bone health, especially as the risk of osteoporosis increases with age. Yes, exercise helps to strengthen bones, but without the right fuel, even the strongest bones will begin to break down over time. You can find calcium and Vitamin D in foods like leafy greens, dairy, and fatty fish.

Fiber

Digestive troubles are a common issue as we age, but fiber is here to save the day! Be sure to include foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. These nutrients help keep things moving and maintain a healthy gut.

Potassium

Increasing potassium intake can help regulate fluid balance and prevent muscle cramps. Potassium is also essential for heart health and reducing the risk of high blood pressure. It can be found in bananas, sweet potatoes, and spinach.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

This little helper has a host of benefits for the body and overall health. Adding omega-3 fatty acids will help improve heart health, brain function, and even reduce inflammation. It’s the all-in-one nutrient! Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids include nuts, seeds, and fatty fish like salmon.

Nutrition is the foundation of health, no matter what age you are. Learning and making small changes to include these important nutrients will have a positive impact on how you feel and age. Think of these small dietary changes as an investment in your long-term health, well-being, and vitality.

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