Tai Chi for Enhancing Motor and Cognitive Function in Parkinson's Disease

Specific Aim 1: To assess the feasibility of recruiting and retaining individuals with PD into a 6-month randomized controlled trial of Tai Chi exercise.

Specific Aim 2: To collect preliminary data on the efficacy of Tai Chi on improving gait and balance dynamics, physical and cognitive function, exercise activity, self-efficacy, mood, and quality of life in individuals with PD.

Inclusion criteria

• Individuals recently diagnosed with idiopathic PD (≤ 10 years)
• Limited disease progression
• If taking PD-related medication, willingness to undergo baseline and follow-up testing while off medication
• Willingness to commit to the study protocols and complete Tai Chi program
• Willingness to be videotaped and audio-recorded during testing

Exclusion criteria

• Diagnosis of any form of atypical parkinsonism
• History of: stroke, head trauma, brain tumor, brain injury, seizures or other central nervous system condition, orthopedic impairment or other disease that could likely contribute to a gait disturbance or parkinsonism
• Any severe, chronic condition or acute medical event for which participation in exercise programs is contraindicated (e.g. debilitating Rheumatoid Arthritis, history of frequent falls, unhealed fracture)**

** Unless the participant is able to obtain formal written approval from his/her treating physician granting permission to participate in our Tai Chi exercise program

• Participation in brain stimulation within the past 3 months
• Family history of seizures or unexplained loss of consciousness
• Current history of dementia or severe psychiatric illness. Patients with mild (non-suicidal) depression and/or anxiety may be included
• Acute illness requiring hospitalization within past 3 months
• History of deep brain stimulation or other brain surgery
• Participation in brain stimulation within the past 3 months
• Regular use of walking aid
• Significant Tai Chi experience (> 6 months training in past 2 years)