Objective: To examine the impact of cognitive impairment (CI) on the effectiveness of rehabilitation training programs in individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and identify strategies to optimize rehabilitation outcomes.
Background: PD is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by both motor and non-motor symptoms, including CI. While exercise-based rehabilitation is beneficial for motor function, balance, and overall well-being, the presence of CI may influence adherence, engagement, and response to such interventions. A comprehensive review of current evidence is needed to assess how cognitive deficits affect rehabilitation outcomes and to propose tailored intervention strategies.
Method: A systematic literature search was conducted across Cochrane, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Inclusion criteria encompassed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies examining the relationship between CI and rehabilitation outcomes in PD. Data extraction focused on motor function (UPDRS-III), balance, quality of life (PDQ-39), and cognitive assessment scores. Thematic synthesis identified barriers and facilitators to rehabilitation effectiveness in cognitively impaired individuals.
Results: A total of 76 studies met inclusion criteria. Findings indicate that mild CI is associated with reduced adherence and engagement in structured exercise programs, while moderate to severe CI significantly impairs motor learning and long-term rehabilitation benefits. Cognitive-motor training and dual-task interventions showed greater effectiveness in individuals with CI, demonstrating improved executive function and motor coordination. Personalized rehabilitation plans incorporating cognitive training elements yielded higher success rates.
Conclusion: CI plays a critical role in determining rehabilitation outcomes in PD. Tailored interventions incorporating cognitive training, structured supervision, and adaptive strategies are essential to maximize rehabilitation benefits. Future research should explore personalized approaches and technology-assisted rehabilitation to enhance motor and cognitive outcomes in individuals with PD and CI.
To cite this abstract in AMA style:
A. Elsayed, Z. Hegazy, K. Ahmed, O. Sabry, S. Elsenbawy, G. Abozeid, M. M. Elsayed. The Role of Cognitive Impairment in the Effectiveness of Rehabilitation Training Programs for Parkinson’s Disease: A Review of Current Evidence [abstract]. Mov Disord. 2025; 40 (suppl 1). https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/the-role-of-cognitive-impairment-in-the-effectiveness-of-rehabilitation-training-programs-for-parkinsons-disease-a-review-of-current-evidence/. Accessed October 14, 2026.« Back to 2025 International Congress
MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/the-role-of-cognitive-impairment-in-the-effectiveness-of-rehabilitation-training-programs-for-parkinsons-disease-a-review-of-current-evidence/