Gamifying Movement Could Be Key To Helping Parkinson’s Patients, Study Finds
Gamifying Movement Could Be Key To Helping Parkinson’s Patients, Study Finds
Gamifying Movement Could Be Key To Helping Parkinson’s Patients, Study Finds
Ani Freedman
November, 03, 2025
Summary
A new JAMA Neurology study found that gamification helps Parkinson’s patients increase physical activity despite mobility challenges. In a 12-week trial with 74 veterans, participants received step goals and points-based rewards. During the six-week intervention, daily steps rose 28% from baseline, and remained 12% higher during follow-up. Patients met their step goals 70% of the time with gamification. Researchers conclude that this automated, low-cost, remote approach can effectively boost movement and may be widely scalable. The findings align with prior evidence that reward-based systems—such as apps offering cash or digital incentives—can improve motivation and sustain physical activity.
Reference
Freedman, A. (2025, November 3). Gamifying movement could be key to helping Parkinson’s patients, study finds. Athletech News. https://athletechnews.com/gamifying-movement-parkinsons-disease-patients-study/