Abstract
The goal was to evaluate how rhythmic auditory stimulation can improve motor functioning during participation in motor-based actives in individuals with Parkinson's disease. Parkinson’s disease (PD) is an age-related neurodegenerative condition that affects motor and non-motor functioning in individuals. This neurodegenerative condition results in abnormalities of movement such as movement slowness, limited ROM, decreased gait and postural stability, and tremors. This critically appraised topic looks at how RAS has been shown to create satisfactory effects for gait, improving cognitive abilities, motor control, motor alignment, spatial awareness (proprioception), and overall quality of life for those older adults with Parkinson’s disease. Six articles of level I evidence were appraised and found utilizing rhythmic auditory stimulation showed a significant increase in motor functioning. Specifically, RAS showed a significant increase in gait velocity, gait cadence, stride length, freezing gait, balance, quality of life, and decrease in falls. More research should be completed on the incorporation of RAS into occupational therapy intervention to determine the impact on motor-functioning for those with Parkinson’s disease. Specifically, level I randomized controlled trials should be completed by occupational therapists to determine the efficacy of RAS.