Carrie Crayner was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2019. Her goal is to delay the progression of the disease as much as possible, knowing that she may not die from Parkinson’s but from other causes. She is currently at Appalachian State University to participate in the Aging Well support program, which aims to help individuals understand how their body is aging.
The Aging Well support program at Appalachian State University has received funding from Blue Cross Blue Shield NC. The program is designed to provide participants like Crayner with assessments and tools to monitor their health as they age. Crayner shared her experience with the program, highlighting the challenges she faces with Parkinson’s and the importance of maintaining her physical abilities.
During her assessment, Crayner completed various exercises to test her balance, leg stride, and other aspects of her mobility. Lizzie Muscarello, the clinic’s program manager, explained that the goal of the program is to make the aging process easier and better for individuals. Muscarello emphasized the importance of understanding one’s physical abilities and making necessary adjustments to maintain a healthy lifestyle as they age.
Muscarello, who has a background in coaching gymnastics, stressed the significance of monitoring gait and balance for individuals of all ages. The program is offered free of charge to anyone aged 55 and above, providing them with valuable insights into their physical health and connecting them with resources for additional support. By establishing a baseline assessment, participants can track changes in their health from year to year and make informed decisions about their overall well-being.
Participants in the program often discover new insights about their health, such as balance issues or decreased grip strength compared to their age group. Through personalized assessments and recommendations, the Aging Well support program at Appalachian State University aims to empower individuals like Crayner to take control of their health and aging process.
In conclusion, Carrie Crayner’s journey with Parkinson’s disease highlights the importance of taking care of our physical health as we age. The Aging Well support program at Appalachian State University provides valuable assessments and tools for individuals like Crayner who want to maintain their independence and quality of life as they grow older.
The program’s emphasis on understanding one’s physical abilities
