​QUPD Exercise
DISCLAIMER:
This site was developed by Quinnipiac University's Occupational Therapy students as the output of their Capstone Project. This site is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult your health care provider to see if the activities described in this sie are appopriate for you or your loved one.
Current Stage of Research
The purpose of this study was to determine if a combination of video-based, and in-person group exercise program was effective in improving participation, quality of life, and balance/postural control for community-dwelling individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. At the start of the project, the investigators planned to complete all three phases of this project; piloting the program, conducting both video-based home exercise program and in-person group exercise programs, and re-evaluating and adjusting the program. This project required a modest investment of time in order to progress through each phase. Since time was so limited, the investigators were only able to complete the first phase which included developing the exercise video, creating a survey, and distributing the content to consenting participants. In order to determine any outcomes of this project, it is necessary for researchers to gather data on the usability and ease of accessing the videos, the participant’s understanding of the exercise program, and making necessary adjustments to program based on the participant’s feedback.
At the conclusion of the first phase of this research project, the investigators have ensured that the intervention will help individuals with Parkinson’s disease to overcome and/or compensation for motor-related issues, and improve performance in daily life activities (Petxinge, Fisher, McEwen, Beeler, Walsh, & Jakowex, 2013). A heavy emphasis was placed on aspects of motor learning and andragogy theories to make the intervention suitable for the designated population.
The DVD/internet-based exercise program has been filmed and edited. The exercises included in the program came from reputable sources, and were selected with the motor-related issues of Parkinson’s disease in mind. All of the exercises have the potential to be up-graded or downgraded based on the individual’s stage of Parkinson’s disease. Based on the observation of participants during the filming sessions, along with the visual and verbal cues included in the videos, the exercise program will be a just right challenge for the participants. Video material will be reviewed and any necessary changes will be made before phase two begins.
Connections with several support groups have been made, and the intentions of this research project have been dispersed. Interest in participating in this exercise program has been verbalized by both support group leaders and attendees.
The groundwork and resources for the continuation of this project have been established. The investigators are confident that the exercise program is ready for implementation, as well as to be tested for efficacy and usability.
