Parkinson’s Disease Rehabilitation Program

Patient Diagnosis

The Laurels’ Parkinson’s Disease Rehabilitation Program is appropriate for individuals experiencing functional limitations related to Parkinson’s Disease or as a result of a secondary diagnosis exacerbating the effects of Parkinson’s Disease. The Parkinson’s Disease Program is provided on an inpatient or outpatient basis.  Patients often enter the Program on an outpatient basis and can proceed at their own pace. An inpatient stay is often indicated following a hospital stay and can also facilitate a smooth transition home. The Parkinson’s Disease Program may be continued at a less intense level on an extended stay basis.

Program Design

The Laurels’ interdisciplinary team provides a comprehensive assessment, develops an individualized rehabilitation plan, and then meets routinely to establish treatment goals and review progress. The plan addresses the deficit areas impacting function including:

• Tremors

• Rigidity

• Immobility

• Dysphagia

• Compromised nutritional intake

• Limitation in activities of daily living

• Medication dosing, scheduling or environmental barriers 

The interdisciplinary team includes the patient’s physician, case manager, physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech and language pathologist, nurse, social worker, dietitian and Recreational Services Director. Families and caregivers are encouraged to participate in rehabilitation treatment and planning whenever possible.

Program Protocol

The Laurels’ Parkinson’s Disease Rehabilitation Program is appropriate for adult patients who have:

• An established diagnosis

• Completed any invasive procedures

• Stabilized in their medical condition (e.g. stable cardiac status, no excessive bleeding) or

• A prognosis of recovery and discharge to a lower level of care

Attending physicians are welcome to follow their patients participating in our Medically Complex Programs. If that is not feasible, a member of The Laurels’ medical staff will attend to the patient.