Parkinson's Exercise Program Instructor

At the YMCA, we are dedicated to fostering a community that promotes health, well-being, and inclusivity for all. A certified Parkinson's Exercise Program Instructor plays a pivotal role in delivering exercise programs designed specifically for individuals with Parkinson's, aligning with the YMCA's commitment to enhancing the quality of life for our community members.

Responsibilities:

Exercise Program Design and Implementation:

- Design and implement group and personalized exercise plans considering disease-specific considerations and adhering to Parkinson's Exercise Guidelines.

- Conduct group exercise sessions tailored to the unique needs of individuals with Parkinson's, implementing safe routines recommended by the Parkinson’s Exercise Guidelines.

- Provide modifications and adjustments to accommodate varying fitness levels and abilities.

Communication and Advocacy:

- Demonstrate a deep understanding of Parkinson's symptoms and treatments, effectively communicating with participants and their care partners.

- Advocate for the positive impact of exercise on the quality of life for individuals with Parkinson's, aligning with the YMCA's mission.

Assessment and Modification:

- Conduct health-risk screenings, assessments, and select suitable exercises based on participants' abilities, safety, and personal goals.

- Create a supportive and inclusive environment, modifying class design for varying ability levels and ensuring safety protocols.

Instruction and Engagement:

- Respond to medical incidents, demonstrate exercises, and provide education to enhance participants' understanding and engagement.

- Utilize behavior change strategies to foster a sense of community, motivation, and program adherence.

Adaptability and Flexibility:

- Recognize changes in participants' health status, collaborating with the interprofessional care team, or adjusting exercise plans accordingly.

- Adapt classes to work with clients who need special attention due to health concerns.

Professionalism and Compliance:

- Mitigate legal risk by adhering to professional responsibilities, ensuring a safe exercise environment, and following health and safety regulations.

- Foster a positive and inclusive atmosphere, offering encouragement, support, and motivation to participants.

Continuous Learning and Program Alignment:

- Stay updated on the latest guidelines and recommendations for Parkinson's exercise programs.

- Attend training sessions or workshops as needed and maintain open communication for program alignment.

Administrative and Coordination:

- Acquire substitute instructors for any scheduled classes.

- Participate in scheduled staff meetings, training, and development.

- Take accurate attendance in every class.

- Disseminate class announcements before every class and promote activities, events, training programs, and services.

Community Building:

- Establish a sense of community, autonomy, and camaraderie among participants.

Safety and Emergency Procedures:

- Understand safety and emergency procedures, reporting any issues immediately.

Supervisors and administrators will:

• Follow employee's and volunteers' screening requirements and use screening instruments to screen for abuse risk.

• Provide employees and volunteers with ongoing supervision and training related to abuse risk.

• Provide employees and volunteers with regular feedback regarding their boundaries with children and teens.

• Require employees and volunteers to adhere to policies and procedures related to abuse risk.

Qualifications

- Certified Instructor.

- Specialized training in Parkinson's exercise programs.

- Experience working with individuals with Parkinson's disease.

- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

- CPR and First Aid certification.

- Current Certification (Rock Steady, Personal Training, etc.) and continuing education credits related explicitly to class taught.