Patient perspectives on digital health and physical activity in Parkinson’ disease: a brief research report

Abstract

Background People living with Parkinson’s disease (PwP) typically have lower levels of physical activity (PA) which predisposes them to heart disease, reduced bone density and low exercise tolerance. Digital health has been shown to be effective at promoting PA in several clinical cohorts and monitoring PA in PwP. In addition, PwP have reported positive experiences with using digital health modalities such as smartwatches and telehealth. However, the perspectives of PwP on how best to use digital health to promote PA has yet to be investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate current levels of digital skills in PwP and the perspectives and opinions of PwP on the use of digital health for PA interventions. Methods Eighty-nine PwP living in Ireland completed a cross-sectional questionnaire looking at current levels of PA and self-reported levels of digital skills. Results The majority of participants believed that PA was beneficial for PwP and had a moderate to high level of digital skills. Important factors to consider when constructing a digital health PA intervention included ease of access, low cost, variety of exercises and physical activity options and a feedback function. Conclusion PwP have a moderate to high level of self-reported digital skills. This study provides useful information on factors that should be considered when constructing a digital PA intervention for PwP