Florida Atlantic University Seeks Participants for Parkinson’s Study

BOCA RATON, FL — Florida Atlantic University is actively recruiting volunteers for an important medical study designed to investigate the impacts of Parkinson's disease (PD) and aging on cognitive performance and physical exercise. The announcement was made on Wednesday as the university aims to better understand these critical health issues.

The study will compare the cognitive and exercise abilities of individuals diagnosed with PD to those who are healthy, focusing on insights related to mobility and cognitive function across various age groups. The research intends to explore how both aging and Parkinson’s disease uniquely influence cognitive and physical functions.

To participate in the study, individuals with Parkinson’s must be aged 62 or older, possess a confirmed diagnosis of PD, and have no recent changes in their medication. Additionally, they should lead an active lifestyle and not rely on assistive devices for mobility, such as canes or walkers.

Healthy control participants are also needed for the study. Requirements include being 62 or older, having no neurological diagnoses, and not experiencing recent medication changes. Like their counterparts with PD, they must be physically active and not use assistive devices.

Qualified participants will be required to attend a one-hour testing session at FAU’s Boca Raton campus. This session will involve several assessments, including cognitive evaluations like the Stroop and Flanker tests, the Senior Fitness Test, and questionnaires. The assessments aim to evaluate balance and the risk of falls, along with cognitive and exercise performance insights.

“Our study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to advancing research that could help improve the quality of life for individuals with Parkinson’s disease,” said Dr. B. Sue Graves, the principal investigator and an associate professor in the Department of Exercise Science and Health Promotion at FAU’s Charles E. Schmidt College of Science. “This research not only offers insights for effective PD treatments but also enhances our understanding of healthy aging, which is crucial for developing lifelong well-being strategies.”

For those interested in more information, FAU encourages potential participants to email Dr. Graves at [email protected] or call 954-675-5782.