Music Therapy for Persons with Parkinson’s Disease

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Healing Is Music to Our Ears

Elizabeth Stegemöller is an associate professor in kinesiology who researches how music facilitates movement in people with neurological disorders. Stegemöller is a board certified music therapist with a Ph.D. in neuroscience. Her research has demonstrated that singing training can significantly improve swallowing and respiratory functions, often major impairments in people with Parkinson’s disease.

Stegemöller combines her research with multiple outreach programs for persons with PD, Singing, Dance, Boxing, and Yoga. Each group meets for one hour every week. Stegemöller also hosts a monthly discussion group for persons with PD and their caregivers. All groups are assisted by student volunteers.

In addition to weekly groups, yearly events such as the PD Research Forum, Dancing with the Students Spectacular, and the PD Singing Festival are highlights of the outreach program.

For more information about these programs, please contact Dr. Stegemöller, call 515-294-5966, email esteg@iastate.edu or check out the lab website, www.neuromotorlab.com.