Study to Promote Walking in People with Parkinson’s Disease
You are invited to participate in a research study in which you will be given a pedometer to measure the amount of walking you do over one month. The pedometer is a small device that you keep in your pocket or on your waist. At the end of each day, it measures how many steps you take. You will also be given a small computer to take home. The computer contains an automated exercise advisor – this advisor appears as an animated cartoon character that talks to you from the computer. You use it each day for five minutes. It is designed to help you increase your walking.
You may qualify to participate in this study if you:
- have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease
- are living in the community (not institutionalized)
- can walk at least two blocks without physical assistance or use of a cane or walker
- do not exercise regularly or exercise less than two days per week for thirty minutes at a time
Eligible participants will be asked to come to Sargent College, Boston University for two visits. Participants will be instructed in how to use the pedometer and the computer with the exercise advisor. Participants will answer questions about quality of life, exercise habits and using the animated exercise advisor. An examination of walking and balance will also be conducted. There is no cost associated with the examinations, the pedometer or computer. Parking will be available at Sargent College, Boston University free of charge.
For more information about this study, please contact:
Center for Neurorehabilitation
at Sargent College, Boston University