A Novel Digital Music-based Autonomous Personalized Walking Intervention to Improve Gait and Walking Automaticity in Parkinson Disease
The purpose of this research study is to examine the effects of a 3-month personalized community-based walking program using a digital music-based device designed for self-directed gait training in people with Parkinson disease (PD). The study uses music cues delivered through this digital device to improve walking outcomes. The investigators want to know if personalized music cueing through the digital device can improve walking quality, walking ability, daily walking amount and intensity, and quality of life, while helping walking feel more automatic and require less mental effort. Participants will take part in this research study for approximately 18 weeks in total. During this time, participants will complete 4 study visits at designated research centers at Boston University, Washington University in St. Louis, or the University of Utah, depending on the site of enrollment.
• Self-report of diagnosis of typical Parkinson disease determined by a medical doctor
• ≥ 40 years of age
• Community-dwelling (e.g. home, independent living, senior housing)
• Have stable PD medications for at least two weeks prior to enrollment
• Modified Hoehn and Yahr stages 1-3 per physical exam by a licensed physical therapist
• Able to walk independently without physical assistance for at least 10 minutes (assistive devices allowed with reciprocal gait pattern)
• Willing and able to provide informed consent
• Provide HIPAA Authorization to allow communication with the primary healthcare provider for communication (as needed) during the study period