Overview
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if the Ronnie Gardiner Method (RGM) works to improve cognitive functions in adults with Parkinson's disease (early to mid-stage). It will also learn about the secondary effects on speech, mobility, balance, and mood.
The main questions it aims to answer are:
- Does a 10-week RGM intervention improve cognitive aspects, speech (indirectly through improved breathing), mobility, and balance in participants with Parkinson's disease?
- How do participants experience the intensity, difficulty, and emotional impact of the RGM sessions?
Description
The Ronnie Gardiner Method (RGM) is a cheerful, structured, multi-sensory brain exercise method that utilizes rhythm and music to stimulate movement, speech, and cognition. RGM makes playful use of rhythm, music, movement, speech, hearing, sight, and touch. During practice, the participant reads the symbols and 'translates' them into the corresponding movement, which is performed to the rhythm of the music. Preliminary research suggests RGM may have added value in promoting mobility, cognition, and well-being in neurological patients (https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/09638288.2024.2392037#d1e1192).
The RGM exercise series for which participants are registering is integrated in the "Fit en Actief group classes" organized by the Ghent Flemish Parkinson League - in collaboration with Ghent University Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy.
The classes will take place from October to December 2026 (10 weeks), with exercises taking place once a week for 1.5 hours (on Thursdays) in the practical classrooms of the Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy program (UH Ghent, B3). In addition to the exercise sessions themselves, participants will be asked to perform home exercises twice a week for 15 minutes.
Before and after the exercise series, participants will be invited to take a pre- and post-test including administrative data, cognition, motor symptoms, balance, QOL. The training process (home exercises, experiences) will be inventoried by temporary questionnaires.
Afterwards, participants will be surveyed regarding changes in medication during the exercise series, changes in the frequency or content of (physio)therapy, and perceived changes in attention, memory, and planning.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- diagnosis of idiopathic Parkinson's disease
- safe, independent mobility and participation (Hoehn and Yahr stages 1-3)
- a stable dopaminergic medication regimen for at least 4 weeks prior to study participation
- willingness and ability to participate in a 10-week intervention program
- willingness to participate in the study (signing of informed consent)
Exclusion Criteria:
- Presence of other neurological or severe psychiatric conditions that could interfere with participation or the interpretation of results (e.g., substance use disorder, severe depression, psychosis)
- Severe visual or hearing impairments that limit the ability to follow group instructions as determined by a physician.
- Physical limitations that inhibit safe participation in moderate-to-vigorous exercise or group rehabilitation.
