Date Presented 04/03/2025
OTs can play an important role in supporting physical activity routines for people with early-stage Parkinson’s disease through education on use of wearable devices to track physical activity and support self-management.
Primary Author and Speaker: Alissa C. Pacheco
Contributing Authors: Katrina M. Long, Danielle C. Kipnis, Jehan C. Alomar, Chelsea C. Macpherson, Dipti C. Wani, Lori Quinn
PURPOSE: Physical activity (PA) is effective in reducing motor & nonmotor symptoms and improving quality of life in people with Parkinson’s Disease (PwP). However, few PwP meet recommended levels of moderate-vigorous PA (MVPA) weekly. PA coaching is an intervention occupational therapists (OTs) can use to promote PA uptake to support health management. An important component of PA coaching is remote monitoring using wearable devices, which has the potential to empower PwP by tracking PA during daily living. This study evaluates the role of wearable devices, and qualitative perspectives & preferences of device use from PwP enrolled in PA coaching program, PreActivePD.
DESIGN: PreActivePD focused on increasing MVPA through education, collaborative goal setting, and supportive self-management strategies. PwP (n=20) received 6 coaching sessions via telehealth by an OT. Participants wore a wearable device for PA monitoring during the intervention.
METHODS: We analyzed data from a self-developed questionnaire to determine use of the device during daily routines. Interviews completed post-intervention were analyzed qualitatively for themes regarding perspectives on device use.
RESULTS: Analysis (n=13) found 90% of PwP used the wearable device to incorporate PA into their daily routines, and 92% reported that it motivated them to engage in PA. 95% reported they would continue device use after the intervention. The heart rate feature was the most popular feature (91%). Themes from interviews revealed the importance of real-time data tracking, user accountability, device feedback, and combining coaching with a wearable device as key aspects of the intervention.
CONCLUSIONS: Wearable devices may motivate and empower PwP to participate in PA, and may be useful for accountability, feedback, and real-time tracking, which is important for disease self-management. OT’s can play a crucial role in educating early-stage PwP on using wearable devices to self-manage PA routines.
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