Table 1 The ParkFit and the ParkSafe program

Intensity

Year 1

Maximum of 19 physical therapy sessions based on problems and

disabilities as perceived by each individual patient; the systematic way of

tailoring goals is described in the evidence-based guideline for physical

therapy in PD

Maximum of 35 physical therapy sessions based on problems and

disabilities as perceived by each individual patient; the systematic way

of tailoring goals is described in the evidence-based guideline

for physical therapy in PD

16 coaching sessions to identify and focus on individual beliefs and aims to

promote a physically active lifestyle

Intensity

Year 2

Maximum of 23 physical therapy sessions based on problems and

disabilities as perceived by each individual patient

Maximum of 35 physical therapy sessions based on problems and

disabilities as perceived by each individual patient

12 coaching sessions to identify and focus on individual beliefs and aims to

promote a physically active lifestyle

Specific Elements

ParkFit Brochure:

• Education about benefits of physical therapy

• Identifying aims of physical therapy

• Education about the benefits of physical activity

• Identifying barriers to engage physical activity

• Setting goals

• Recruiting social support

• Sign a health contract to support patients in initiating and maintaining

physical activities

• A logbook to describe and monitor the specific goals

ParkSafe Brochure:

• Education about benefits of physical therapy

• Identifying aims of physical therapy

• Education about the importance of safety when performing

daily activities

Physical therapist:

who treat the patient in order to obtain the aims of

the individual projected treatment plan

Personal Activity Coach:

who guide patients towards a more active

lifestyle

Physical therapist:

who treat the patient in order to obtain the aims of

the individual projected treatment plan

Goal setting: creating goals to increase the level

of physical activity in order to obtain the half-

year-goals as formulated in the health contract;

goals will be evaluated as well as experienced

barriers and possible solving techniques

Ambulatory Activity Monitor: gives visual

feedback about the level of physical activity

during the day

Bi-annual newsletter: specific information about

physical activity, general information about

Parkinson's disease, and general entertainment in

order to facilitate compliance

Bi-annual newsletter: specific information about

physical therapy, general information about

Parkinson's disease, and general entertainment in

order to facilitate compliance