epocrates

AAN 2024: Tandem cycling could improve health, wellbeing for Parkinson’s patients and their caretakers

March 26, 2024

Pedaling on a stationary bicycle built for two may improve the health and wellbeing for people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and their care partners, according to early results that will be presented at the American Academy of Neurology’s Annual Meeting in April. The findings suggest that this unique cycling program can improve the resiliency of caregivers, which may help to decrease care partner burden. Individuals with PD showed improvement in assessments of physical wellness and ability to handle social situations, relationships, and communication.

• The study included 18 participants, nine of whom had PD and their nine care partners.
• The pairs cycled on indoor, stationary tandem bicycles while using a virtual reality platform two times per week for eight weeks; care partners were able to adjust the cycling pace and facilitate a higher pedaling rate for greater health benefits.
• Prior to starting the cycling program, all participants completed a series of tests and repeated those same tests two days after the final cycling session eight weeks later.
• In a test of resiliency, participants ranked a series of six statements regarding their perceived ability to bounce back or recover from stress. Those with PD did not show improvements, but care partners demonstrated overall improvement in resiliency and statistically significant improvements in depression scores.
• People with PD demonstrated improvements in overall perception of difficulties in daily living and quality of life.
• Participants with PD also showed significant improvements in mobility and walking speed, and a decrease in motor severity and progression of disease.

Sources:

Reyes, R, et al. Functional and cognitive benefits of a community tandem cycling exercise intervention on patients with Parkinson’s disease and their care partners. Presented at: 2024 American Academy of Neurology Annual Meeting; April 13-18; Denver, CO. https://index.mirasmart.com/AAN2024/PDFfiles/AAN2024-005723.html

(2024, February 29). American Academy of Neurology. Tandem cycling linked to improved health for those with Parkinson’s, care partners. [Press release]. https://www.aan.com/PressRoom/Home/PressRelease/5151