Conductive Education (CE) was developed in Hungary in the late 1940’s by Professor Andras Peto. The world renowned Peto Institute, named after him is located in Budapest, Hungary and to this day educating students from all over the world in the comprehensive discipline of CE. Since the 1960’s Conductive Education has gained extensive international interest throughout the West within Medical and Th
erapeutic circles. CE is a sensitively designed teaching methodology practiced in a group setting while the focus remains on individual development and improvement. Classes consist of movement based tasks in laying, sitting and standing positions, incorporating; gross, fine, 3-dimensional and spatial skills. The aim of CE is to teach Participants how to regain control of their movements and to relearn and reproduce everyday tasks. Partaking consistently in classes and implementing skills learnt during everyday life, clients will find they are able to lead more active and happier lives, with less overall symptoms. It is important to understand that CE doesn’t offer a cure but instead through an educational approach teaches techniques and strategies to help overcome symptoms and everyday problems caused by the condition. CE FOR PARKINSONS:
During the class, the Conductor first demonstrates the sequence, which is then followed by the group. The Conductor delivers each task with a rhythmical intension. This rhythmical delivery of verbalizing the task (for example: I lift my right leg up) allows the participant to repeat the intention using mental rehearsal to prepare for active movements. The movement is then carried out during a count of 1-5, which provides the very important external guide optimal for the movement to be successful. This cue is particularly important to those with Parkinson’s, it initiates movement as an internal cognitive cue, in and increases tempo, so that the tasks can be successfully applied to daily activities such as:
• Walking
• Getting up/Sitting down
• Speech
• Driving
• Improvement in Handwriting
The Parkinson’s Program is also designed to improve on the Physical Secondary Symptoms associated with PD, clients see noticeable improvements in the following areas:
• Rigidity
• Posture
• Generalized Slowness
• Tremor
• Low Blood Pressure
• Swallowing Difficulties
• Control of Facial Expressions
• Coordination
• Concentration
• Pain
Parkinson’s can often make people feel alone and isolated, it can affect mood and emotional states, even causing mild or moderate depressive symptoms. Attending regular CE classes can boost confidence and improve mood & morale. During classes there is also an opportunity to share problems, insight and discuss solutions in a friendly open environment. CE classes through Second Chance CE provide Support Group for both Clients as well as Partners and Carers, who are always welcome to attend. Additional benefits of CE include improvement in:
• Mood, Anxiety & Depression
• Confidence
• Emotional Support for Participant & Partners/Carers
• Support Group
