A new study led by researchers from the University of Otago and UNSW has found that telehealth can be a safe and effective method for assessing balance and walking in people with mild-to-moderate Parkinson’s disease (PD).
Published in Disability and Rehabilitation, the research involved 30 participants with PD and 15 older adults who completed a series of mobility tests both in-person and remotely via videoconferencing. The study evaluated the reliability and validity of assessments such as the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Dynamic Gait Index (DGI), and Timed-Up-and-Go (TUG) tests.
Key findings revealed that specific test items—including 360° turning, stepping performance, pivot turning, and TUG with cognitive and motor dual-tasking—were not only feasible to conduct remotely but also valid indicators of fall risk. These assessments showed moderate to excellent reliability when performed via telehealth, offering clinicians a practical tool for monitoring mobility in patients who may face barriers to in-person care.
Lead author Dr Paulo Henrique Silva Pelicioni noted that the study supports the use of telehealth to extend care to individuals in rural and remote areas, helping overcome challenges such as transportation and physical limitations. Importantly, no adverse events were reported during the remote assessments, underscoring the safety of the approach when appropriate precautions are taken.
This research marks a significant step toward equitable healthcare access for people living with Parkinson’s disease and highlights the potential of telehealth in rehabilitation settings.