Exploring how nature affects mood and cognition in people with and without Parkinson's disease
The Benefits of Nature for Mood and Cognition in Persons With and Without Parkinson's Disease
This study looks at how spending time in nature affects mood and thinking in people with and without Parkinson's disease.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Ages | 40 Years to 100 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Boston University Charles River Campus Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Boston, Massachusetts) |
| Trial ID | NCT06483126 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study investigates the impact of natural environments on mood and cognitive functions in individuals both with and without Parkinson's disease. Participants will complete an online survey that assesses their demographic information, health status, exercise habits, and exposure to natural settings, along with various questionnaires related to mood, motivation, cognition, sleep, stress, and quality of life. The survey is designed to take approximately 20-25 minutes and aims to gather insights into the benefits of nature on mental health. Participants will receive a $15 Amazon gift card for completing the survey.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals aged 40 and older, both with a diagnosis of idiopathic Parkinson's disease and healthy adults without neurological conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with a diagnosis of dementia or those lacking functional vision or internet access may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide valuable insights into how exposure to nature can improve mood and cognitive function, potentially benefiting mental health strategies for patients.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this study may be novel, previous research has indicated positive effects of nature on mental health, suggesting potential for success.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: For persons with Parkinson's disease: * Participants must be at least 40 years old * Have a diagnosis of idiopathic PD * Be proficient English speakers * Have functional vision * Have internet access, and access to a smartphone/laptop/desktop For persons without Parkinson's disease: * Participants must be healthy middle-aged and older adults, with no diagnosis of neurological/neurodegenerative conditions * Participants must be at least 40 years old * Be proficient English speakers * Have functional vision * Have internet access, and access to a smartphone/laptop/desktop Exclusion Criteria (both groups): * Diagnosis of dementia * Poor vision (non-functional range) * Lack of access to internet or to a smartphone/ laptop/desktop computer.
Where this trial is running
Boston, Massachusetts
- Vision and Cognition Laboratory, Boston University — Boston, Massachusetts, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Alice Cronin-Golomb, PhD — Boston University
- Study coordinator: Shraddha Kinger, MA
- Email: shradk@bu.edu
- Phone: 617-353-6476
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.