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Community-Based Exercise Programming for Individuals with Parkinson's Disease: A Qualitative Study
Aiza Khan1, C Allyson Jones1,2, Marguerite Wieler1
1Department of Physical Therapy, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
Neurorehabilitation
|June 9, 2025
Summary
Community exercise programs significantly benefit individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD), offering physical, emotional, and social advantages. Addressing barriers like transportation and cost is crucial for wider accessibility and maximizing the positive impact of exercise for PD patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Exercise Science
- Public Health
Background:
- Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurological disorder impacting motor and non-motor functions.
- Exercise is recognized as a vital component in managing PD symptoms alongside traditional therapies.
- Community-based exercise programs offer a structured approach to physical activity for individuals with PD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the perspectives of individuals with PD, their care partners, and program providers on a community-based exercise program.
- To identify motivators, challenges, and outcomes associated with participation in a PD-specific exercise intervention.
- To inform strategies for enhancing the accessibility and effectiveness of exercise programs for Parkinson's disease.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study involving in-depth interviews with individuals with PD (n=17), care partners (n=7), and program providers (n=3).
- Participants engaged in a twice-weekly, community-based, PD-specific exercise program for at least 12 weeks.
- Interpretative phenomenology analysis was employed, supported by patient advisors and care partners in data interpretation.
Main Results:
- Key motivators included the program's PD-specific design and the benefits of group exercise.
- Post-program outcomes encompassed symptom improvement, enhanced motivation, community support, and reduced self-consciousness.
- Identified barriers to participation were transportation issues and program costs, highlighting the need for improved accessibility.
Conclusions:
- The PD-specific exercise program was positively perceived, delivering significant physical, emotional, and social health benefits.
- Increased community awareness regarding the importance of exercise for Parkinson's disease management is essential.
- Addressing participation barriers is critical for maximizing program benefits and ensuring equitable access for all individuals with PD.
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