How playing ping pong is helping Tulsans diagnosed with Parkinson's

A group of people that play ping pong on Friday nights at the South County Recreation Center in Bixby all have one thing in common: a Parkinson's diagnosis.

Hamid Ezzat-Ahmadi is the founder of the local Ping Pong Parkinson chapter, a New York-based nonprofit that raises awareness about the benefits of playing ping pong.

Q: How many Americans are affected by Parkinson's disease?

A: Parkinson's disease affects one in every 100 people age 60 and older. In Oklahoma, thousands of people have been diagnosed with the disease.

Q: What impacts can ping pong have on the progression of the disease?

A: Doctors and researchers have found ping pong has a positive impact on the progression of the disease in a way that medication alone is not doing. Ping pong incorporates a focus on balance, hand-eye coordination, and the rhythm of reciprocal play which makes this unique form of exercise great for those with Parkinson's.

Q: When does the local Ping Pong Parkinson chapter meet to play?

A: The Tulsa chapter of Ping Pong Parkinson plays on Friday nights from 5:30 to 7:45 p.m.

The group meets at the South County Recreation Center located at 13800 S Peoria Ave. in Bixby. Caregivers are also welcome to play.

The first month of play is free and after that, it is $10 a month or $50 for six months per family. However, the group will not turn anyone away for the inability to pay.

To learn more about the nonprofit's mission visit PingPongParkinson.org.