Introduction
In clinical practice, most people with Parkinson’s disease (PwPD) receive rehabilitation during the middle or late stages, often without multi-disciplinary care. This results in limited interventions, despite evidence of significant sensorimotor impairments in early-stage PwPD. Early intervention can slow symptom progression, enhance quality of life, and support functional and social participation. Online training programs address the variability in symptoms and individual needs.
Objectives
This research aims to investigate the short-term effects of an online training program on motor symptoms and self-efficacy in early-stage PwPD.
Methods
Seven participants were recruited and randomized into control (N=2), on-site training (N=3), and online training (N=2) groups for this pilot study. The online training program included task-specific exercises, balance, hand function, and self-management training. Outcome measures included UPDRS-motor, Nottingham Extended Activities of Daily Living (NEADL), and the General Self-Efficacy Inventory, assessed pre-intervention, post-intervention, and six months later.
Results
All participants showed significant motor and hand function impairments and low self-efficacy at baseline. The online training program demonstrated comparable or better improvements than on-site training in motor symptoms (Change: control: -0/5; online: -4/-4/-2; on-site: 1/-1; negative values represented improvement), IADL independence (Change: control: -1/12; online: 5/16/-2; on-site: 9/8), and self-efficacy (Change: control: -5/6; online: 4/1/7; on-site: 3/-3).
Conclusions
Online self-management and on-site task-related training are beneficial for improving clinical symptoms and independence, delaying disease progression, and maintaining daily life activities. These findings highlight the potential of innovative, accessible interventions in advancing the scope of occupational therapy for supporting individuals with Parkinson's disease in various stages of care.