4 new non-drug projects to improve everyday life with Parkinson's
Living with Parkinson’s brings new challenges every day. Our exciting new non-drug research focuses on the issues that matter most to people living with Parkinson’s.
Non-drug approaches are important because these projects often progress more quickly than drug-based treatments. This means symptoms can be addressed sooner, and people with Parkinson’s can benefit faster.
4 projects aiming to improve everyday life for people with Parkinson's
Dr Julie Jones is exploring a solution that could bring specialist physiotherapy into people's homes using augmented reality (AR) glasses. These glasses allow users to interact with digital objects as part of a personalised exercise programme.
"This study gives control to the person with Parkinson’s," says Ellen, who reviews grant applications and helps us choose what research to fund.
Dr Caroline Williams-Gray is researching whether ginger supplements can help with gut problems common in people with Parkinson's, such as bloating and constipation, by improving gut hormone levels and reducing inflammation.
"Ginger is often associated with digestion, but there have been no studies into its effects in people with Parkinson’s," says Dr Caroline Williams-Gray.
Dr Stephen Jackson is researching a non-invasive way to reduce tremor using a wrist-worn device called Neupulse. The device delivers a small electrical pulse to stimulate nerves in the wrist and manage unwanted movements, offering an accessible alternative to brain stimulation.
"My hands often don’t work well enough at the end of the day to brush my teeth," says Paul, who lives with Parkinson’s.
Professor Anja Lowit is developing a new speech and language program to help people with Parkinson's who struggle with communication, such as finding the right words or constructing sentences. The program aims to empower them to participate more fully in daily activities.
"This difficulty affects communication and therefore social interaction, which then can affect the wellbeing and quality of life of the people with Parkinson’s," says Diane, who reviews grant applications and helps us choose what research to fund.
Help fund this exciting new research
We all want to find a cure for Parkinson’s, but making everyday symptoms easier to manage as quickly as possible matters too.
Your donation this Christmas will help us bring these innovative, non-drug solutions closer to the people who need them.