Group Versus Individuals Telehealth Exercise Programs for People With Parkinson Disease

This program will be delivered 2 times per week for 8 weeks with examination of outcome measures prior to and after completion. The investigators plan to enroll 20 participants with 10 completing a group program led by a physical therapist and 10 completing an individual exercise program led by a physical therapist.

Inclusion criteria

• have a diagnosis of idiopathic Parkinson disease
• been prescribed a stable dose of levadopa medication for at least 4 weeks prior to study participation
• be able to walk independently
• have a referral from a physician to participate in the program
• have access to a computer/tablet/or phone to use for telehealth sessions with reliable internet and access to the Zoom platform

Exclusion criteria

• have any other neurological condition other than Parkinson disease
• have a score less than 20/28 on the Mini-Balance Systems Evaluation Test (reflecting a higher risk of falls)
• demonstrate unstable/unsafe blood pressure or heart rate responses during the initial evaluation with response to submaximal exercise
• have any musculoskeletal condition that affected their ability to participate in the exercise group
• score less than 24/30 on the Mini Mental Status Examination during the initial evaluation