LSVT LOUD therapy can do the
same for those with communication
challenges Often individuals have LSVT
BIG and LSVT LOUD therapies back to
back on the same day.
“Those who complete the program
have noticeable improvements,“ says
Nicole Kalkhoff, speech language
pathologist at TOBH. “When they
complete the therapy, they have the
tools to continue working on their own.”
Because TOBH therapists know that
this therapy is key to continued
management of symptoms, they are
making plans to offer a weekly support
group for those who have completed
the program. Titled BIG for LIFE®/ LOUD
for LIFE®, former patients will gather
for an exercise program along with the
opportunity to mingle over refreshments.
“The time spent with others who are
managing PD and its impact can be
very beneficial,” said Lisa Minerich, a
TOBH occupational therapist who is
also LSVT BIG certified. “In addition to
review of the exercises, we want this
to be an opportunity for individuals,
their family members and caregivers to
connect and motivate each other.”
Downing is clearly ready and willing to
participate in the group sessions. “The
way I see it, my full-time job now is to
exercise,” he says with a grin. “Like they
say here, don’t worry about what you
can’t do—focus on what you can do and
keep it going. That’s what I’m doing.” n
May/June 2019
The content in Health Coach is not intended for diagnosing or prescribing. Consult your physician before undertaking any form of medical treatment or adopting any exercise program or dietary guidelines.
Health Coach is published bimonthly by The Outer Banks Hospital. The Outer Banks Hospital, Inc., is a part of Vidant Health and Chesapeake Regional Healthcare.
Nearly one million people will be
living with Parkinson’s disease (PD)
in the U.S. by 2020, according to the
Parkinson’s Foundation.
The disease, which affects both a
person’s ability to communicate and
move, is difficult to diagnose because
it develops differently from person
to person. That’s why working with
a doctor to evaluate symptoms and
create a personal treatment plan is the
best first step toward managing the
disease. That, combined with lifestyle
choices around diet/nutrition and
emotional well being, can help people
stay independent and enhance their
quality of life.
Continuing Support for Patients with Parkinsons
To give Outer Banks’ community
members with PD the option of staying
near home for rehabilitation therapies,
The Outer Banks Hospital (TOBH)
offers both LSVT BIG® and LSVT LOUD®
evidence-based services. Each involve
16 sessions over a four week period
and focus on exaggerated activity to
compensate for movement and speech
challenges. Participants are encouraged
to move in big or in amplified ways
as they learn the LSVT BIG exercise
protocol for daily carry over to skills like
dressing, writing, better balance and
retrieving items.
For speech, the focus is on loud
speaking. Activities may include
sustaining sounds such as “ah,” in
addition to oral reading and speaking
activities. The goal over 16 sessions is
to get patients to use their body and
their voice more normally.
“It’s a really great experience,” notes
Bill Downing, a Southern Shores
resident who began to experience
trembling symptoms in 2007. He
recently completed 16 sessions
over the course of four weeks with
therapists certified in LSVT BIG and
LSVT LOUD.“The people here are so
professional. They know what they’re
doing and are up on all the latest stuff.
This place is a treasure.”
Downing, a former naval officer and
retired Nags Head postmaster, was
diagnosed with Parkinsons in 2012.
While he has received deep brain
stimulation to help with his symptoms,
he is most enthusiastic about the
services he’s received at TOBH. “I
admit I wasn’t thrilled to drive down
to Nags Head for therapy but I have a
much different attitude now,” he said.
“This team cheers you on! They’re so
enthusiastic and they really care.”
With three certified LSVT BIG and LSVT
LOUD therapists in the Outpatient
Rehabilitation Therapy Center, the
treatment is customized and it’s
administered one-to-one. LSVT BIG
therapy can produce noticeable
improvements even for those with
significant physical difficulties.
Southern Shores resident Bill Downing celebrates positive results in his session with Nicole Kalkhoff, a speech language pathologist and certified LSVT LOUD® therapist. Downing, who experiences Parkinson’s symptoms, recently completed a 16-session course of therapy at The Outer Banks Hospital Rehabilitation Therapy Center.
BIG for LIFE® / LOUD for LIFE® Coming to The Outer Banks!Individuals who have received therapy from
a certified LSVT BIG® and/or LSVT LOUD®
therapist in the past six months are eligible
to participate in this exercise program and
support group beginning in June.
For more information and to register, call (252) 449-4560.
Occupational Therapist Angie Goetsch, a certified LSVT BIG therapist, works with BIll Downing to help him amplify his movements and practice balance.
TOBH | Wednesday, May 15 | 8:00am-1:00pmDonating one pint of blood can help save up to three lives! The Blood Connection
will bring their mobile unit to Dare County to host a blood drive at The Outer Banks
Hospital. All donors will receive a $10 Walmart Gift Card. To register, scan the
QR code to the right
with your phone or type
thebloodconnection.org
into your browser, then search
The Outer Banks Hospital in
the sponsor name search.
For more information,
call 449-5933.
May/June 2019
TheOBH.com | 252.449.4500 | Milepost 14 | 4800 S. Croatan Hwy. | Nags Head
Calendar of EventsHealth Education
Cancer Conversations: “Understanding Skin Cancer: Prevention and Treatment”Friday, May 17 | Noon-1:00pm TOBH Cancer Resource CenterSkin cancer is the most common cancer in adults. Learn more about the types of skin
cancer, their warning signs, and the steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved
ones every day. Seating is limited. Call 449-7300 to register.
Cancer Conversations: “Medical Marijuana and CBD Oil: What Do We know?”Friday, June 28 | Noon-1:00pm TOBH Cancer Resource CenterCancer Conversations are geared toward cancer patients, survivors, family, friends, and
care givers/supports but anyone interested in learning more about cancer is welcome to
join us. Lunch will be served. Seating is limited. Call 449-7300 to register.
Health Screenings and Services All Aboard The Health Coach!
Free Wellness Screenings By AppointmentThe events listed below are open to the public. If you would like to make an appointment
for a health screen at one of the events listed below, please call 449-7300.
The Health Coach also visits local businesses and organizations to serve their employees
and patrons directly. These events are not listed and are not open to the public. If you
would like The Health Coach to visit your business or organization, call 449-4529.
Wednesday, June 5 | 10:00am-1:00pm White’s Gas Station/Convenience Store, 7389 US-64, Manns Harbor The Outer Banks Hospital Health Coach and Community Care Clinic of Dare are partnering
to offer FREE blood pressure and blood checks to the Outer Banks community. In addition,
participants can learn more about the offerings of the Community Care Clinic. No
appointment necessary.
Skin Checks Friday, June 7 | 9:00am-12:30pm-3:00pmSouthern Shores Crossing, 1 Ocean Blvd., Southern ShoresThe Outer Banks Hospital Health Coach is offering FREE skin checks by appointment
to the Outer Banks community. In addition to protecting your skin from too much sun
exposure, regular skin checks are essential to staying one step ahead of skin cancer. To
reserve a skin check appointment, please call 449-7300.
Community Events Gentle Chair Yoga
Fridays in May and June | Noon-1:00pmMay 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 | June 7, 14, 21, 28Baum Senior Center, 300 Mustian Street, Kill Devil HillsCommunity members, as well as chronic illness and cancer survivors, are invited to
participate in our gentle chair yoga program. For more information, call 449-4529.
Prepared Childbirth and Breast Feeding SupportMondays in May and June | 7:00pm-9:00pmMay 6, 13, 20, 27 | June 3, 10, 17, 24OBH Port RoomClasses are offered each month, with the first 3 classes about childbirth education. The
last class is about breast feeding support. Classes are free of charge for any patient. To
register, call 449-5690.
For the most up-to-date information about our classes and events, please visit TheOBH.com/Health-Wellness/Classes-Events. If you would like an electronic version of this newsletter, please email your request to [email protected].
Over-the-Counter Medicine Giveaway EventsThursday, May 9 | 11:00am-1:00pm Fessenden Center, 46830 NC-12, Buxton
Friday, May 10 | 10:00am-2:00pm Dare County Center, 950 Marshall C Collins Drive, ManteoIn partnership with NC MedAssist, The Outer Banks Hospital and Community Care Clinic
of Dare will be bringing two Over-the-Counter Medicine Giveaway events to Dare County!
Families and individuals in need of over-the-counter medications will be able to select
medications at no cost to them. For more information, call 449-5933. .
Med Drop Drive-ThruMonday, May 13 | 8:00am-11:00am TOBH Parking LotUnwanted prescription or over-the-counter medications will be collected by the Dare
County Sheriff’s Department. Health Coach vehicle will be parked in the hospital parking lot.
American Lung Association Better Breather’s Club Third Monday of Each Month | May 20 and June 17 | Noon-1:00pm Baum Senior Center, 300 Mustian Street, Kill Devil HillsTaking care of your emotional health is a key part of managing your COPD or other lung
disease. The Better Breathers Club offered at The Outer Banks Hospital can offer you a place
to share your thoughts with others who know what you are going through. Family members
and caregivers are also welcome to join. Call 449-7300 to let us know you are coming!
TOBH Wellness Camp Wednesdays at 7:00am beginning May 22-June 26Ocean Bay Blvd. Beach Access at MP 8, Kill Devil HillsDesigned for men and women of all skill levels, TOBH Wellness Camp is a FREE 6-week
wellness camp featuring yoga, light exercise, stretching, meditation and more. Practice
something new or hone your skills at OBH Wellness Camp!
Stroke Awareness Lunch & LearnWednesday, May 29 | 12:30pm-1:30pm Baum Senior Center, 300 Mustian Street, Kill Devil HillsEducating yourself about stroke can be life-changing! The Outer Banks Hospital is having a
Stroke Awareness Lunch & Learn where you can learn how to prevent, identify and treat a
stroke, learn preventive measures and have your blood pressure checked at the program.
Healthy Kids Lunch & LearnFriday, May 31 | 12:00pm-1:00pmDare County Center, 950 Marshall C Collins Drive, Manteo This program will feature samples of healthy kid-friendly foods as well as provide parents
with tips for encouraging healthy eating for their children and promoting a positive,
healthy relationship with food.
Open House and Ribbon Cutting for Outer Banks Family Medicine–Kitty HawkMonday, June 3 | 4:30pm-6:00pmOuter Banks Family Medicine, 5120 N. Croatan Hwy., Kitty HawkJoin us for refreshments as you tour the newly constructed Outer Banks Family Medicine
– Kitty Hawk. The ribbon cutting will take place at 5:00pm.
Blood Drive Hosted by The Outer Banks Hospital and The Blood Connection