Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess changes in physical function, cognitive function, and quality of life in individuals with Parkinson’s disease as a result of participating in a structured exercise program. Caregivers were also invited to participate in the study. 

Background: Researchers were approached by a local weightlifting center to research the benefits of exercise on individuals with Parkinson’s. During the exercise program, participants complete a variety of training exercises, including whole body movements, agility, strength training, and boxing. Research regarding the effects of structured exercise on cognitive functioning and quality of life are limited and results are mixed, thus this study has the opportunity to provide a valuable contribution to the field.

Methods: Forty two individuals participated in the study. Participants were assessed for eligibility using the Hoehn-Yahr scales (H-Y) and the General Practitioner Assessment of Cognition (GPCOG). For individuals that met inclusionary criteria, researchers administered the Parkinson’s disease questionnaire (PDQ-39) and the Scales for Outcomes in Parkinson’s Disease-Cognition (SCOPA-COG) to individuals with Parkinson’s. Caregivers completed the Short Form-36 (SF-36). Strength, eye-hand coordination, and balance were tested in both individuals with Parkinson’s and caregivers.

Results: Both individuals with Parkinson’s and caregivers showed slight improvement in physical functioning after 6 weeks of exercise. Parkinson’s disease participant post exercise results of the PDQ-39 and the SCOPA-COG showed a positive correlation between physical functioning, cognitive functioning, and patient-reported quality of life outcomes. Caregiver participants reported little to no change in patient-reported quality of life as a result of the exercise program.

Conclusions: While prior research has shown that physical functioning can increase in individuals with Parkinson’s, there are few studies analyzing the effects of exercise on cognitive functioning and quality of life in individuals with Parkinson’s. Results showed a positive correlation between physical functioning, cognitive functioning, and patient-reported quality of life in individuals with Parkinson’s.  Caregivers did not report a significant change in quality of life as a result of the exercise program, which further highlights the benefits of the exercise program for individuals with Parkinson’s.

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MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/changes-in-functioning-associated-with-exercise-in-individuals-with-parkinsons/