How singing can help Parkinson's patients

September 20, 2016

'It's not about what we sound like'

Paula Wolfson leads a group of singers with Parkinson's in Toronto (Ryerson University)

Members of the P.E.I. Chapter of Parkinson Canada are participating in two hour-long sessions called Singing with Parkinson's. It's being offered through the Confederation Centre of the Arts by Toronto actress Paula Wolfson.

'It's just so good for the spirit.'- Paula Wolfson

Wolfson participated in research through Ryerson University that highlighted the benefits of singing to alleviate the symptoms of Parkinson's. She is starting a non-profit organization to help people across Canada.

"We're not a choir, it's not about what we sound like, it's about how we sing together and what we take from that," said Wolfson.

"Some people will report back that they sleep better, they feel emotionally better, some people report stronger voices, particularly the people who practice every day, I think it's just so good for the spirit."

The second session of the free workshop will be held next week.

Anyone with Parkinson's or family members of those who have the disease are invited to attend.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/prince-edward-island/pei-parkinson-singing-wolfson-1.3770082