Feasibility of a novel eHealth intervention for Parkinson’s disease targeting motor-cognitive function in the home

Abstract

Abstract Background Parkinson’s disease (PD) drastically affects motor and cognitive function, but evidence shows that motor-cognitive training improves disease symptoms. Motor-cognitive training in the home is scarcely investigated and eHealth methods can provide continual support for PD self-management. Feasibility testing is however required. Objective to assess the feasibility (i) recruitment capability ii) acceptability and suitability iii) demand and safety) of a home-based motor-cognitive eHealth exercise intervention in PD. Methods The 10-week intervention was delivered using the ExorLive® application and exercises were individually adapted and systematically progressed and targeted functional strength, cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, and motor-cognitive function. People with mild-to moderate PD were assessed before and after the intervention regarding; gait performance in single and dual-task conditions; functional mobility; dual-task performance; balance performance; physical activity level; health related quality of life and perceived balance confidence and walking ability; global cognition and executive function. Feasibility outcomes were continuously measured using a home-exercise diary and contact with a physiotherapist. Changes from pre- and post-intervention are reported descriptively. Results Fifteen participants (mean age 68.5 years) commenced and 14 completed the 10-week intervention. In relation to Intervention acceptability, 64% of the motor sessions and 52% of motor-cognitive sessions were rated as "enjoyable". Concerning suitability, the average level of exertion (Borg RPE scale) was light (11–12). Adherence was high, with 86% of all (420) sessions reported as completed. No falls or adverse events occurred in conjunction with the intervention. Conclusions This motor-cognitive eHealth home exercise intervention for PD was safe and feasible in terms of Recruitment capability, Acceptability, Safety and Demand. The intensity of physical challenge needs to be increased before testing in an efficacy trial. Trial registration: This trial is registered at Clinicaltrials.gov with NCT05027620.