Regular exercise aids balance, eases Parkinson’s motor symptoms |…

Regular Exercise Improves Balance and Mobility in Parkinson’s Disease Patients

A systematic review and meta-analysis of published studies have shown that regular physical exercise can help improve balance and mobility in individuals with mild to moderate Parkinson’s disease.

The study, titled “Self-directed Physical Activity Interventions for Motor Symptoms and Quality of Life in Early and Mid-stage Parkinson’s Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis,” emphasizes the importance of incorporating exercise as a non-pharmacological approach for managing Parkinson’s disease.

Benefits of Exercise for Parkinson’s Patients

The analysis included data from 15 previous studies that tested the effects of physical exercise on individuals with early or moderate Parkinson’s disease. The exercise interventions ranged from walking on a treadmill to dance, yoga, or tai chi, and were performed anywhere from once a week to five times per week for durations of about one month to nearly six months.

1. Improved motor function: Patients who participated in exercise programs experienced greater improvements in measures of motor function, such as the timed up-and-go test or the six-minute walk test.
2. Enhanced gait function: Patients who exercised had longer, faster steps while walking and showed improvements in balance, reducing the risk of falls.
3. Decreased motor symptoms: Exercise interventions led to a decrease in motor symptoms, as evidenced by lower scores on the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS).

It is important to note that only two studies assessed the impact of exercise on quality of life, and the results were inconclusive due to limited data. Further research with larger sample sizes and comprehensive quality of life measures is needed to draw more definitive conclusions.

Supporting the Sustainable Development Goals

The findings of this study align with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – Regular exercise can contribute to improved health and well-being for individuals with Parkinson’s disease.
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – Access to exercise interventions can help reduce inequalities in healthcare for individuals with Parkinson’s disease.
• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Collaboration between researchers, healthcare professionals, and individuals with Parkinson’s disease is essential for advancing knowledge and promoting exercise as a non-pharmacological approach.

In conclusion, this systematic review and meta-analysis provide evidence supporting the benefits of exercise for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. Sustained engagement in exercise programs is crucial for achieving significant improvements in balance, mobility, and motor symptoms. Further research is needed to explore the impact of exercise on quality of life and to determine the ideal exercise forms and duration for optimal benefits.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

   • Target 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one-third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being.
   • Indicator 3.4.1: Mortality rate attributed to cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, or chronic respiratory disease.
   • Indicator 3.4.2: Suicide mortality rate.

2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

   • Target 11.7: By 2030, provide universal access to safe, inclusive, and accessible, green, and public spaces, in particular for women and children, older persons, and persons with disabilities.
   • Indicator 11.7.1: Average share of the built-up area of cities that is open space for public use for all, by sex, age, and persons with disabilities.

Analysis

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

The issues highlighted in the article are connected to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

Based on the article’s content, the specific targets that can be identified are:

• Target 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one-third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being.
• Target 11.7: By 2030, provide universal access to safe, inclusive, and accessible, green, and public spaces, in particular for women and children, older persons, and persons with disabilities.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Yes, there are indicators mentioned in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:

• Indicator 3.4.1: Mortality rate attributed to cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, or chronic respiratory disease.
• Indicator 11.7.1: Average share of the built-up area of cities that is open space for public use for all, by sex, age, and persons with disabilities.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: parkinsonsnewstoday.com

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