Document Type

Presentation

Publication Date

2025

Faculty Mentor

Cristina Reyes Smith

Abstract

Abstract

Title: Safe & Steady: A Toolkit for Injury Prevention in Pickleball for Older Adults with Parkinson’s Disease

Background: Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a movement disorder that affects balance, walking, posture, coordination, cognition, and more that can increase the risk of falling. Around 60% of people with Parkinson’s Disease (PwPD) fall every year for a variety of reasons (Parkinson’s Foundation, 2025). Studies have shown that physical activity not only has a positive impact on symptoms, but exercise has an integral impact on overall wellbeing and quality of life for PwPD (Bispo, et. al, 2024). There are many types of physical activity and exercise that PwPD can participate in including the booming sport of pickleball.

Purpose: This project aimed to empower PwPD to participate in the sport of pickleball safely and enhance overall wellbeing by 1) evaluating needs for safety and fall/injury prevention for individuals with PD interested in playing pickleball recreationally and 2) developing an evidenced-based written guide tailored toward older adults with PD.

Methods: Considered a Quality Improvement (QI) project by MUSC IRB, this doctoral capstone involved participation in the MUSC Wellness Center’s 8-week instructional pickleball program for individuals with Parkinson’s called “Pick It Up,” followed by creation and implementation of a toolkit called “Safe & Steady.” Data was collected via pre/post surveys and informal interviews, including qualitative and quantitative measures.

Results: Analysis yielded heightened confidence, satisfaction, effectiveness, and awareness among individuals with Parkinson’s on the benefits of the “Safe & Steady” toolkit for future sessions. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis.

Conclusion: This doctoral capstone enhanced the awareness and need for safety resources for PwPD in the sport of pickleball. Future projects could prioritize ongoing advocacy and education through structured classes focused on safe falling techniques and strategies for getting up after a fall.

References:

Bispo, D. P. C. F., Lins, C. C. S. A., Hawkes, K. L., Tripp, S., & Khoo, T. K. (2024). The Positive Effects of Physical Activity on Quality of Life in Parkinson's Disease: A Systematic Review. Geriatrics (Basel, Switzerland), 9(4), 94. https://doi.org/10.3390/geriatrics9040094.

Parkinson’s Foundation. (2025) What is Parkinson’s? Parkinson’s Foundation. https://www.parkinson.org/understanding-parkinsons/what-is-parkinsons

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