"We initially held exercise groups at the hospital; however, due to parking, time of day, access to toilets, and location, it was difficult for individuals to attend the group," said Mal Wordell, Speech Language Therapist.
"We successfully applied to Health Fund PLUS for support to change the location into the community and meet fortnightly instead of during busy traffic hours."
The Parkinson's Voice Support Group is for patients with Parkinson's who are having difficulty with their communication - voice, speech, or language- and their support people.
The group presents specific voice exercises that often last 20-25 minutes and then breaks into groups of three-four people using voice strategies. The sessions focus on voice and volume, including breathing support, holding sounds and playing with pitch.
The exercises target a louder voice and focus on good vocal resonance, cognitive exercises, articulation, and language-based exercises.
The group benefits individuals with a progressive disease to connect with others with similar communication struggles. It is a chance to offer group therapy, with voice exercises from communication specialists.
Mal initiated the Speak Up group and says the feedback from the participants is always positive.
"Patients find it worthwhile and really enjoy it," she says.
"With Health Fund PLUS support, more people in Northland will be able to attend the therapy they so desperately need. Without it, they are at risk of being unable to communicate their basic wants and needs."
The group runs fortnightly on Wednesdays at Te Ora Hau in Tikipunga. Contact 09 430 4101 extension 7706
Health Fund PLUS is a partnership between Northland Community Foundation and Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora Te Tai Tokerau, focusing on managing donations from our community and raising funds for projects beyond government funding. Projects such as enhancing healing spaces or purchasing nice-to-have items can make all the difference in providing the best quality healthcare possible.
The Health Fund PLUS partnership benefits the health needs of all Northlanders by focusing on giving for the good of many. If you are interested in learning more about Health Fund PLUS, phone 021 558 224 or email info@northlandcommunityfoundation.org.nz
