Objective: To present 1-year results of motor and QoL assessments of participants in physical activity programs at the InMotion (IM) community center.

Background: Numerous studies demonstrate the value of physical activity for PD. IM is a dedicated center offering open classes in a variety of physical activities free of charge. Disciplines include traditional exercise (3 levels), tai chi, yoga, cycling, boxing, and modern dance.

Methods: Participants with PD were enrolled at their first participation in IM activities. Motor performance and QoL were assessed at initial visit and every 6 months. Motor assessments (+ data endpoints) included a 2-minute walk test (distance), 60-second sit-to-stand and lateral stepping tests (# reps), 30-second bilateral single-limb balance (# floor touches with other foot), single-arm clean-and-press, rotational body turn tests (# reps), and Timed-Up-and-Go tests in alternate directions (time). QoL measures came from the PDQ-39. Mean figures of all data endpoints were derived. Statistical significance was determined using a paired t test.

Results: 163 subjects had initial motor assessments (time 0); 63 were reassessed at 6 months (time 1), and 36 again at 1 year (time 2). All motor tests showed stability or improvement from times 0→1 and 0→2. All but the single-leg stance showed stability or improvement from times 1→2. Of 36 individuals undergoing ≥3 assessments, 56-74% showed improvement from times 0→2 on all tests except lateral stepping, where 39% improved. 257 participants have taken the PDQ-39, 93 a 2nd time and 35 a 3rd. 6/8 dimensions showed stability or improvement from times 0→1 and 1→2. “Cognition” improved from times 0→1, but worsened at time 2. “Bodily discomfort” deteriorated from times 0→1 and 1→2. Individually, 33 subjects showed stability or improvement from times 0→2 in 6/8 domains, but deterioration in “Cognition” and “Communication”.

Conclusions: Participation in a community program of multidisciplinary physical activity may aid in preserving motor performance and quality of life in individuals with PD. We cannot claim an intervention effect because we could not control for other contributory factors. However, given the progressive nature of PD, our results suggest we may be contributing to stabilization of the clinical course of these participants. The data are consistent with a large body of literature documenting the value of physical activity for persons with PD.

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MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/motor-performance-and-quality-of-life-in-a-community-exercise-program-for-parkinsons-disease/