Pilot Study of an 8-Week Online Physical Activity Coaching Program for Adults with Parkinsons Disease in Qatar

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating an online physical activity coaching program called Engage-Qatar PD designed for people with Parkinsons disease PD in Qatar. The study aims to develop and culturally adapt this program for online delivery, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome common barriers to exercise and improve their function and quality of life. This project builds on previous coaching interventions used in people with Huntingtons disease and PD, with a pilot randomized controlled trial planned to assess feasibility, acceptability, and potential benefits. Participants in the study will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. The intervention group will receive an 8-week personalized self-management program including one face-to-face coaching session and seven remote online sessions, supported by an online forum and a wearable smart watch for activity monitoring. The control group will receive standard physical activity recommendations for PD and a Fitbit watch for basic activity monitoring, but will not have access to the coaching or online forum. Both groups are encouraged, but not required, to wear their activity monitors during the intervention. During the study, participants will be assessed using various physical activity and health-related tests, including objective 7-day physical activity measurement, questionnaires on activity and symptoms, motor and cognitive function tests, and quality of life assessments. Researchers will monitor progress through wearable devices and regular coaching sessions. The study will last at least 8 weeks, with data collected on physical activity levels and other health outcomes to evaluate the programs impact and potential for wider implementation.

An Online Physical Activity Coaching Intervention for People With PD in Qatar