Research
Are you living with Parkinson’s Disease and interested in contributing to meaningful research while improving your balance and mobility? We invite you to participate in an innovative study that could benefit the entire Parkinson’s community.
About the research
Our physiotherapist, Mr Kan Ito, is conducting a research study titled “Comparison of an online and centre-based group exercise program to improve balance for people with Parkinson’s Disease”. This study is based at Kingston Centre. It is supported by the Lions John Cockayne Memorial Fellowship Trust Fund and has received approval from the Monash Health Human Research Ethics Committee.
This research aims to determine the most effective way to deliver balance training, potentially improving treatment options for people with Parkinson’s Disease.
Your participation could help improve balance therapy for future generations of people living with Parkinson’s Disease.
What’s involved
We’re seeking participants with Parkinson’s Disease who are interested in assisting research and engaging in an 8-week Parkinson’s Disease specific balance exercise program either online or face-to-face.
Participants attending face-to-face sessions at the Kingston Centre will receive parking vouchers.
How do I get involved?
Contact Kan Ito for more information:
- Phone: (03) 9265 1411
- Email: kantaro.ito@monashhealth.org
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the program start?
Recruitment began in early August 2025.
There will be two rounds of the exercise program.
The first round is scheduled to run from October 2025 – November 2025.
The second round is scheduled to run from February 2026 – March 2026.
What’s the schedule?
Sessions run on Monday and Wednesday mornings. While we encourage attendance at all 16 classes, missing one or two sessions won’t disqualify you from the study.
Who can participate?
We’re looking for people with Parkinson’s Disease who can take at least a few steps without mobility aids (such as walking sticks or frames). Family members and support persons are welcome to attend alongside participants.
What if I’m not eligible or decide not to participate?
We remain committed to supporting people with Parkinson’s Disease through our standard care practices, including both in-person and online physiotherapy exercise groups where appropriate.