This multi-week class is Improv for people with Movement Disorders (Parkinson’s Disease, MS) and care Partners. Improvisational Theatre Games are being used clinically over the world. Improv classes are being offered for stress management, coping with life challenges, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Multiple Sclerosis. Neuroscience tells us that play, when combined with the trust-building of improv experiences, builds “pro-social brains that know how to interact with others in positive ways.” This is important for adults who are dealing with significant physical and emotional difficulties. A student shared their thoughts on this class. “All of us have PD at different levels and we’re all trying to accept our challenges. For some of us, communication can be embarrassing and this helps us learn to speak out and not be afraid to use our voices.”
Improv for People with Parkinson’s, MS and their Care Partners – with Margot Escott, LCSW
In 1997 my father, Ivan Escott, Jr. was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. It was a lucky coincidence that this was the year that the Parkinson Association of South Florida (PASFI) was founded. I had the opportunity to speak at a meeting with the founding members of PASFI before they were incorporated so knew about their mission. A few weeks after that, my dad received his PD diagnosis. How fortunate we were to know there was a place where he could be involved, receive education and support. 
