Parkinson's Group of the Ozarks

06/22/2026

A Rock Steady Boxing class is much more than just boxing. Rock Steady is a community fighting back together against Parkinson’s disease.

It's specifically designed to address Parkinson’s symptoms such as slow or small movements, imbalance, stiffness, flexed posture, and respiratory weakness. The scientifically based curriculum can be adapted to any level of Parkinson’s.
Participants often report increased confidence, improved mood, better posture, enhanced motor skills, and a sense of community and support.

Find out for yourself how empowering the classes can make you feel!

Call Rock Steady Boxing at The Bodysmith today to get started!

06/20/2026

Whether you're working in your garden, going for a swim, or taking a road trip, our friends at F8 Training & Wellness Studio have a weekly exercise class that'll help you stay mobile and independent to help you enjoy all of your favorite summer activities. 😎

With a mix of seated and standing exercises based off the LSVT BIG therapy program, this invigorating class incorporates movements centered around strength training, balance, flexibility, endurance, and coordination to help you manage your PD symptoms.

Call today to get started!

06/18/2026

Don't let the summer heat stop you from enjoying what you love! 🌞🚴

Indoor cycling is available for those with Parkinson's disease at the Meyer Center!

This FREE class will let you enjoy all the benefits of the activity in a cool and air-conditioned environment.

📞417-844-3443 to register or for more information.

06/17/2026

Come join this fun and delicious event with the Monett Area Chamber of Commerce that helps raise awareness about Parkinson's disease in the Ozarks!

🥞💙 Pancakes with a purpose!

Join us on Friday, July 4th for Pancakes for Parkinson’s — a fundraiser breakfast benefiting the Parkinson’s Foundation.

📍 Monett Downtown Pavilion
🕗 8:00–10:00 AM
💵 $5 suggested donation

Bring your appetite and your heart — every plate helps support research, awareness, and care for those affected by Parkinson’s.

06/16/2026

The LSVT LOUD for Life speech therapy class at the Downtown Church has been cancelled for Wednesday, June 17th.

Class will resume again on Wednesday, June 24th.

For questions, contact Molly at 417-763-9722.

06/14/2026

You've probably heard that about the Rock Steady Boxing classes at The Bodysmith, but did you know that they also offer FREE Parkinson's Pilates classes?!!

A lot of people with Parkinson’s turn to Pilates because it’s a low-impact activity with big-impact results! Pilates is a gentle and effective exercise that can help with some of the movement difficulties you might experience with Parkinson's. The simple routines require teeny movements—often just an inch at a time. It may not even seem like a workout at all. But do it right, and you’ll feel the strength building in your belly, back and thighs. Before long, you’ll stand up taller and have better balance.

These exercises can be adapted to anyone, even those with physical limitations. Because Pilates focuses on increasing core strength and improving flexibility and balance, it can be particularly helpful in countering the effects of PD. It’s also non-aerobic, so you won’t get your heartbeat racing and you won’t break a sweat. That makes it a great choice if you’re worried about fatigue or stamina.

Call or visit The Bodysmith to learn how to get started!!

06/12/2026

Sharpen your pencils and get ready for a night of laughs and friendly competition at Trivia Night benefiting the Parkinson’s Group of the Ozarks. ✏

Join us on Saturday, July 11 at Relics Event Center in Springfield, Missouri. Doors open at 4:30 PM and trivia begins at 5:00 PM, so gather your team and arrive ready to put your knowledge to the test. 🧠

Each of the 10 rounds will feature questions inspired by classic school subjects — think geography, science, history and more. Will your team graduate at the top of the class… or end up in detention? 👨🏽‍🏫

If you find yourself stumped, don’t worry — mulligans will be available for purchase to give your team a lifeline when you need it most.

The fun doesn’t stop with trivia. Try your luck in our 50/50 raffle or explore our exciting silent auction, featuring incredible items and experiences donated by local businesses. 🎟

Whether you’re a teacher’s pet or just here for the fun, this is your chance to enjoy great food, connect with the community, and support a meaningful cause. Space is limited, so gather your team and sign-up before the bell rings! 🔔

https://www.parkinsonsgroup.org/upcomingevents

06/11/2026

The Parkinson's Support Group at The Bodysmith/Rock Steady Boxing at The Bodysmith has been cancelled for this Saturday, June 13th. The next meeting is scheduled for Saturday, July 11th once plans are finalized. For questions, 417-865-0500.

06/10/2026

Summer dehydration and swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) in Parkinson’s disease form a dangerous cycle. Heat blunts the natural thirst sensation, while swallowing issues make drinking liquids frightening or physically challenging. Dry mouths and thickened saliva, common with dehydration, make swallowing more difficult and increase the risk of choking. Dehydration quickly worsens Parkinson's symptoms, causing increased stiffness, low blood pressure, and confusion.

PD Speak, Swallow, & Learn is a FREE, weekly ongoing class that provides exercises for clearer speech, muscle strengthening for breathing, coughing, and swallowing, and communication strategies for you and your care partners.

Can't attend in-person? Virtual option through Zoom is available! 💻

06/08/2026

This free class has a mix of fun dance styles paired with easy to learn steps and movements. It can be enjoyed seated or standing and addresses PD-specific concerns such as balance, flexibility, coordination, gait, social isolation, and depression in a fully artistic and non-judgmental environment.

Best of all, no dance experience is needed! Caregivers are welcome to attend but you don't need a partner to join. 🕺

Whether you're stomping your feet to some pop tunes or swaying along to some classic oldies, there's something for everyone!

Call our friends at The Bodysmith to get started today!