Authors

  1. Stiles, Elizabeth A. PhD, MPA
  2. Jaffe, Karen M. MD
  3. Schwartz, Catherine E. MPA
  4. Rossi, Benjamin M. BBA
  5. Riley, David E. MD

Abstract

We investigated the effect of a comprehensive community program composed of exercise, mindfulness practice, and education on motor function and quality of life in individuals with Parkinson disease (PD). Thirty-six participants completed physical and quality-of-life assessments independently at baseline and 12 months. Physical assessments showed stability or improvement in functional mobility, integrated strength, and walking ability over the 1-year interval. PDQ-39 measures showed improvement in 6 of 8 indices: mobility, activities of daily living, emotional well-being, stigma reduction, social support, and bodily discomfort. Our results demonstrate the effectiveness of exercise, mindfulness, and education in community and group settings.