A MULTIMODAL EXERCISE AND SUPPORT PROGRAM FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH PARKINSON’S DISEASE

https://youtu.be/sYfLBYVwCPA INTRODUCTION: Parkinson’s disease (PD) significantly impacts mobility, balance, and quality of life. Traditional rehabilitation often provides short-term gains but lacks long-term follow-up to support sustained improvement. To address this gap, ECU Health Wellness Center launched a pilot, community-based PD program integrating evidence-based exercise and peer support. Aim Statement: To develop and implement a sustainable, community-based program for individuals with PD that combines physical and psychosocial support to enhance functional outcomes and quality of life. METHODS: Participants engaged in Rock Steady Boxing 90-minutes sessions, twice weekly, aquatic exercise sessions in a warm-water pool for 90 minutes monthly, and bi-monthly physician & peer led support meetings. Participants are assessed using Timed Up and Go (TUG), 30-Second Sit-to-Stand, BERG or FAB, and PDQ-39 to track mobility, balance, and quality of life. Attendance and adherence are also monitored. RESULTS (PRELIMINARY): Participants with completed 1-year data were included in this preliminary analysis. Preliminary results showed an improvement in FAB scores (+4), a significant improvement in sit-to-stand performance (+5.25) and a 10% change in average TUG performance within the first 6 months. Early observation suggests improvements in functional movement, particularly sit-to-stand ability, with small gains in balance and mobility. Participants also reported enhanced confidence, social connection and motivation to maintain regular exercise. Current participation averages 12–13 individuals per week with >80% adherence. Ongoing data collection will provide further insight into clinical and psychosocial outcomes. DISCUSSION/LESSONS LEARNED: Preliminary experience indicates that combining boxing, aquatic therapy, and physician to peer support is feasible and well-received. Lessons include tailoring sessions to daily variability in symptoms and fostering interprofessional collaboration. CONCLUSION: This initiative highlights how multimodal, community-based programs can extend care beyond rehabilitation and provide lasting benefits for people with PD.