Journal of Alzheimers Disease & Parkinsonism
Open Access

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate a structured training program using a series of rhythmic exercises for a group of patients with Parkinson’s
Disease (PD).
Background: There is increasing interest in the potential benefit of systematic exercise in the management of PD. However, there
is still insufficient knowledge about what type of exercise may be most beneficial for which symptoms and how exercise programs
may be best applied to aid PD patients.
Methods: PD patients (n=20) were recruited in a Norwegian region with patients on waiting list as controls. The group followed
a structured program with rhythmic exercises once a week led by physiotherapist. The mean age was 62.4 (SD 7.3) years and the
mean disease duration was 8 (SD 5.2) years. Participants were evaluated by UPDRS, Hoehn & Yahr, Senior Fitness, Up and Go
before project start at 6, 12 and 18 months. Quality of life issues were evaluated by interactive qualitative interviews, Montgomery-
Aasberg depression rating scale and Herth Hope Index before project start at 6, 12 and 18 months.
Results: Functional tests showed stability in the exercise group compared to control group. Quality of life measures showed low
values for depression compared to control group and emphasized the value of group training and the importance of collaboration
with participants responses. Interview data suggest that a higher rate of follow-up on home training would further improve
results.
Conclusions: Our follow-up data from the 4 year period 2011-15 suggest benefit of a rhythmic exercise program developed
in collaboration with participants, effects becoming more marked over time. Further research to specify benefits of structured
exercise is recommended.

Biography

Audun Myskja is a Doctor, Music Therapist, Leader and Founder of ‘Senter for Livshjelp’ (LifeAid Centre for empowerment). His career has encompassed not only
allopathic medicine (since 1981) but he has also gained considerable recognition in Norway and other countries for his work in a number of complementary therapies. He
worked in general practice and internal medicine during 1982-1998; was educated in complementary therapies and integrated medicine from 1974; and practiced with,
healing, herbs and flower essences from 1976. He is an Author for 20 books and 100+ articles on integrated medicine, medical music therapy, self-development, ecology,
spirituality, meditation, exercise, health building. He is a Collaborator with Norwegian Parkinson`s disease Association from 2002.