Parkinson’s Connection Builds Strength and Community
April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the disease and empowering people who live with the many challenges it brings. At John Knox Village, that mission is carried on in many ways through Parkinson’s Connection by John Knox Village, a program that has quickly grown into a vibrant community for individuals with Parkinson’s and their families.
Since opening its doors last April, Parkinson’s Connection has evolved into holding nearly 70 classes a month at the new facility. Participants can choose from six different exercise classes, three support groups, and a variety of educational sessions designed specifically for people living with Parkinson’s disease and those who care for them.
As a Community Partner in Parkinson’s Care through the Parkinson’s Foundation, the John Knox Village team has received specialized training to support individuals with Parkinson’s and help them maintain strength, mobility, and quality of life.
“I think we have a very strong program, offering a wide variety of fitness classes, educational opportunities, and social events,” said Victoria Shatto, manager of Parkinson’s Connection. “We can offer services to people with a range of abilities, from completely independent individuals living in the community, to long-term care and memory care residents.”
Shatto says watching the program flourish and seeing members improve has been incredibly meaningful.
“I am excited to watch it grow and fulfill a need in our community,” she said. “It has been so rewarding watching our members improve both functionally and cognitively. I believe it fills a purpose in their lives, bringing joy and a sense of self-worth.”
Remarkable Change
For many participants, the results have been remarkable.
Wayne Allen has been a Village Care Center resident since June 2024, following a broken hip. Three years earlier, he had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Like many people living with Parkinson’s, Wayne shuffled when he walked and relied heavily on his walker.
After receiving LSVT BIG® and LSVT LOUD® therapies through Outpatient Therapy by John Knox Village, Wayne joined the Parkinson’s Connection program last year. Today, he participates in Rock Steady Boxing and PWR!Moves classes five times a week.
Since starting the classes, Wayne’s daughter, Sherri, has watched his confidence and mobility improve.
“It’s just amazing,” she said. “He used to need a lot of assistance getting around. It’s so good to see him out of his room and moving.”
Wayne has even progressed to letting go of his walker during class, performing movements with his arms raised overhead – something that once seemed out of reach.
Building Community
For Larry and Marilee Jansen, the Parkinson’s Connection program has provided something equally meaningful: a sense of community.
When the couple began exploring options for long-term support, the program stood out immediately. Larry had already been coming to the Village for nearly two years to receive therapy for Parkinson’s. During a support group meeting, they first learned about the broader Parkinson’s Connection offerings.
What they discovered became more than just a program – it became a support system.
“It has built a Parkinson’s community for us,” Marilee shared.
Larry attends the Parkinson’s Peer Support Group regularly, where he has developed friendships with others who understand the daily challenges and victories of living with Parkinson’s. Marilee finds similar encouragement in the Caregiver Support Group, where she connects with others navigating the caregiving journey.
Larry also participates in Rock Steady Boxing three days a week, which has become an important part of his wellness routine. Marilee is grateful for the instructors and therapists who lead the program.
“They are consistent, committed, and have positive attitudes,” she said. “They make him feel good about what he’s doing and tell him that what he’s doing is very worthwhile.”
Over the past year and a half, Marilee says Larry has maintained his abilities and has not experienced any decline.
“Larry has more really great days now,” she said.
Empowering Through Input
Shatto says the program’s continued growth will be shaped by the members themselves.
“I tell the members: the sky is the limit,” she said. “I want the program to be what they want, not necessarily what I want it to be.”
For participants and their families, Parkinson’s Connection has become more than a place to exercise or attend support groups. It is a community built on encouragement, connection, and hope while navigating life with Parkinson’s.
If you’d like to learn more, call the Parkinson’s Connection at 816-347-2738.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Parkinson’s Connection at John Knox Village?
Parkinson’s Connection is a program that offers exercise classes, support groups, and educational sessions for individuals living with Parkinson’s and their families.
How many classes are offered each month?
The program offers nearly 70 classes per month, including six types of exercise classes, three support groups, and additional educational opportunities.
Who can participate in the program?
The program supports individuals across a range of abilities, from those living independently in the community to those in long-term care or memory care.
What types of exercise programs are included?
Participants can take part in specialized programs such as Rock Steady Boxing and PWR!Moves, along with other classes designed to improve strength, mobility, and function.
Are there support resources for caregivers?
Yes. Caregivers can participate in dedicated support groups to connect with others and navigate the caregiving experience together.
What makes this program different?
In addition to its range of classes and services, the program emphasizes community, connection, and consistent engagement, helping participants stay active and involved.
About John Knox Village
John Knox Village is a leader in senior living services in Lee’s Summit and the greater KC region. The community boasts a diverse range of living options from freestanding homes and apartment homes to villas. With more than 700,000 square feet of common space across the beautiful campus, you’ll find more opportunities and experiences right outside your door.
If you’re exploring Life Plan Communities in Lee’s Summit or the Kansas City area, we’d love to show you all that John Knox Village has to offer. Contact us today, call (816) 251-8000 to schedule a visit, or register to attend one of our upcoming events.
