Falls are common and disabling in people with Parkinson's disease, affecting up to 60% of those who live at home. This clinical research trial aims to minimize the number of falls and fall-related injuries in people with Parkinson's disease and to improve mobility and participation in life. Two physical therapy programs, known as movement strategy training and strength training will be coupled with falls education and compared with a social program plus usual care. The effects of therapy will be measured for a period of 12 months. After 12 months, quality of life is predicted to be higher in the people that receive strengthening or strategy training because falls and injuries are predicted to be less than for usual care. Quality of life in close family members is also predicted to increase, by lessening the burden of care arising from the disease. The results will provide information about which therapy programs are most effective for reducing falls and improving mobility, so that people with Parkinson's can continue to lead safe and fulfilling lives.
Progress Report
The main aim of this study is to conduct a large-scale randomized controlled clinical trial (RCT) coupled with an economic evaluation to compare the outcomes of two falls and mobility programs with a control intervention for people with Parkinson disease (PD). The overall objective is to reduce falls and their associated injuries in people with PD who live at home. 201 people with PD from Melbourne, Australia have participated in 8 week community-based therapy programs, comprising either (i) Movement Strategy Training and Falls Education, (ii) Strength Training and Falls Education, or (iii) Life-skills Education. All participants have completed initial and post-therapy assessments of movement, disability, and quality of life as well as 3 month follow-ups. The primary outcome measure is falls, measured over a 12 month period by a falls calendar and telephone system. This study will be completed in December 2010.