Faculty Advisor(s)

Maureen Pascal

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Abstract

Individuals with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) often experience many motor and nonmotor symptoms that impact their ability to participate in their daily life. This protocol aims to address the symptoms of PD by utilizing complementary strategies to manage chronic stress and unhealthy dietary lifestyles, both of which have been identified as risk factors for PD. This eight-week mixed-design randomized controlled trial will take place at Misericordia University, Rock Steady Boxing Old Forge, and the University of Scranton, and will utilize convenience sampling through flyer outreach. Individuals will be randomized into two groups: group one will complete a whole foods diet as well as mindfulness meditation weekly, and group two will complete solely a whole foods diet. Outcome measures will be measured at week 0,4, and 8, while food journals and check-ins by researchers will occur during weeks 2, 3, 5, 6, and 7. Data collection will be processed utilizing a mixed ANOVA and the Mann-Whitney U once the study is completed. Participants will be compensated to offset the financial impact of dietary modifications.

Publication Date

2026

Document Type

Poster

Department

Physical Therapy

Keywords

Parkinson's Disease, diet, whole-foods, wellness, meditation, PD, gait, vital signs, anti-inflammatory

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences | Physical Therapy

The Impact of a Wellness Program Consisting of Meditation and Dietary Education on the Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease: A Protocol

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