Feasibility of the KEEP Digital Intervention for Physical Activity in Newly Diagnosed Parkinson's Patients: Study

Exercise has been shown to help manage both movement and non-movement symptoms in people with Parkinson's disease. However, right after diagnosis, there aren’t many programs that focus on exercise and explain why it’s important or how to do it with Parkinson’s. Most programs available take a one-size-fits-all approach and don’t offer personalized guidance. In this study, researchers wanted to see if people recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s would be interested in an online program promoting exercise. The program included educational content and live group discussions with both other people with Parkinson’s and a specialist physiotherapist. It was developed in collaboration with people living with Parkinson’s and healthcare professionals to better meet the needs of newly diagnosed patients. Thirty people participated in the study. They were randomly assigned to one of two groups: one received the online program, while the other continued with their usual care. Participants completed surveys and wore a wrist monitor for seven days to track their physical activity. The study found that most participants stayed in the study (97%), completed the program modules (91%), attended the live discussions (88%), and wore the monitors for almost 24 hours a day. Overall, the program was manageable and well-liked. Participants said they gained a better understanding of the benefits of exercise for Parkinson’s. However, a larger study is needed to see if the program actually helps increase activity levels.