Objective: To evaluate the long-term effects of telerehabilitation on functional mobility and quality of life (QoL) in individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and determine its sustainability as a therapeutic approach.
Background: PD is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor impairments and reduced QoL. Telerehabilitation, leveraging remote digital interventions, has emerged as an accessible alternative to conventional rehabilitation. However, its long-term impact on mobility and QoL remains unclear, necessitating a systematic review to assess its effectiveness.
Method: A systematic search was conducted across Cochrane, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Inclusion criteria encompassed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and longitudinal studies evaluating telerehabilitation programs lasting ≥12 weeks in PD patients. Outcome measures included mobility assessments (Timed Up and Go Test, gait speed), motor function (UPDRS-III), and QoL indices (PDQ-39). Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool.
Results: A total of 82 studies met inclusion criteria. Telerehabilitation interventions demonstrated significant long-term improvements in gait speed (mean increase 0.12 m/s, 95% CI: 0.05 to 0.19) and functional mobility (Timed Up and Go Test mean improvement -1.8 seconds, p<0.01). QoL scores improved (PDQ-39 mean difference -5.1 points, 95% CI: -7.8 to -2.4), particularly in domains of emotional well-being and mobility. Adherence rates were high (≥80%), with minimal adverse events. Hybrid models combining telerehabilitation with in-person sessions showed superior outcomes compared to fully remote interventions.
Conclusion: Telerehabilitation is an effective long-term strategy for enhancing mobility and QoL in PD patients. Its integration into routine care may bridge accessibility gaps, though future research should optimize intervention strategies and explore individualized approaches for sustained benefits.
To cite this abstract in AMA style:
A. Elsayed, D. W. Ismail, H. Elshazly, Y. M.HUSSEINY, S. Elrobeigi, Y. Hamdi, M. M. Elsayed. Long-Term Effects of Telerehabilitation on Functional Mobility and Quality of Life in Parkinson’s Disease: A Systematic Review [abstract]. Mov Disord. 2025; 40 (suppl 1). https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/long-term-effects-of-telerehabilitation-on-functional-mobility-and-quality-of-life-in-parkinsons-disease-a-systematic-review/. Accessed November 20, 2025.« Back to 2025 International Congress
MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/long-term-effects-of-telerehabilitation-on-functional-mobility-and-quality-of-life-in-parkinsons-disease-a-systematic-review/