Dual-task Augmented Reality Treatment for Parkinson's Disease (DART)

Detailed Summary

Activities of daily living (ADL) frequently involve the simultaneous performance of two or more tasks, such as crossing the street while holding a conversation, commonly referred to as dual tasking. The simultaneous performance of a motor and a cognitive task increases postural instability, gait dysfunction, and may increase fall rates in Parkinson's disease (PD). The goal of this project is to evaluate the effectiveness of utilizing a digital therapeutic, Dual-task Augmented Reality Treatment (DART) protocol, for the treatment of postural instability and gait dysfunction (PIGD) in individuals with PD. A randomized controlled trial will be conducted at the Main Campus of the Cleveland Clinic (Cleveland, OH). A total of 50 individuals with Parkinson's disease will be randomized into 1) a traditional multi-modal training group, or 2) multi-modal training administered via an augmented reality headset. Multi-modal therapy is where the participant practices performing two things at once (i.e. marching while answering math questions). Augmented reality is a type of head-worn technology that allows the individual to see the real world and places holograms in the space. Both groups will exercise 2x/week for a total of 8 weeks. Assessments involving walking, balancing, and turning will be completed to assess the efficacy of the treatment.

Study Details

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Interventions