Improving airway protection for people with Parkinson's disease through in-person and telehealth methods

Rehabilitation of Airway Protection in Parkinson's Disease: Comparing In-Person and Telehealth Service Delivery Models

NIH-funded research Columbia University Teachers College · NIH-11123644

This study is looking at how well two different breathing exercises, done either in person or online, can help people with Parkinson's disease improve their swallowing and coughing to prevent lung infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColumbia University Teachers College NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11123644 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how effective rehabilitation techniques for airway protection, specifically Expiratory Muscle Strength Training (EMST) and Cough Skill Training (CST), can be delivered either in-person or via telehealth for individuals with Parkinson's disease. The study aims to determine if the outcomes of these treatments are similar regardless of the delivery method, addressing a significant gap in current healthcare practices. By focusing on the accessibility of these services, the research also examines how patient burden affects adherence to treatment and overall health outcomes. Participants will be monitored for improvements in swallowing and coughing abilities, which are crucial for preventing aspiration pneumonia.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease who experience swallowing or coughing difficulties.

Not a fit: Patients with Parkinson's disease who do not have airway protection issues or those who are unable to participate in rehabilitation programs may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide patients with Parkinson's disease greater access to effective airway protection therapies, potentially reducing the risk of aspiration pneumonia and improving quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that telehealth delivery of rehabilitation services can be effective, but this specific comparison of in-person versus telehealth for airway protection in Parkinson's disease is novel.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.