Slow-SPEED: Can we support the prevention of Parkinson's by increasing walking exercise?
People can experience a reduced sense of smell for a range of reasons. For some people, changes in their sense of smell may be linked to brain health and conditions like Parkinson’s.
Working with international partners studying people at risk of Parkinson’s, researchers are exploring whether a walking programme improves wellbeing. They’ll also explore whether keeping active reduces risk or delays the onset of Parkinson’s in the future.
110 people without a diagnosis of Parkinson’s who:
• are aged 40 or over
• can walk safely on their own
• don't exercise often
• have a reduced sense of smell (hyposmia)
• and have access to a smartphone
Completing a 30 minute online survey through the Predict-PD website.
Completing a smell test sent by post.
Taking part in an 18 month walking programme from home. The programme is delivered through a smartphone app and a fitness watch, which will be provided.
Attending 2 in-person study visits at Queen Mary University of London, and 1 online study visit.
Travel expenses will be reimbursed.
For more information, please read the participant information sheet.
Interested in taking part?
To take part or if you have any questions, please contact the research team by email at [email protected] or [email protected].
The deadline for taking part in this research is 31 August 2026.
Parkinson's UK
Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine
Charterhouse Square
London
EC1M 6BQ
United Kingdom
Contact the research team by email at [email protected] or [email protected]