Skip to main content RSS Info Close Search
Feedback

Be a part of pioneering Parkinson’s Disease research

In what is believed to be an Australian first, impulsive behaviour in people with Parkinson’s is being studied at Curtin University, Western Australia, and researchers are looking for participants. Parkinson’s is the second most common neurological disease in Australia after dementia, affecting an estimated 70,000 Australians.

<p>Curtin University is looking for participants for a study on impulsive behaviour in people with Parkinson’s (Source: Shutterstock)</p>

Curtin University is looking for participants for a study on impulsive behaviour in people with Parkinson’s (Source: Shutterstock)

Recent research has shown some people with Parkinson’s are prone to impulsive behaviours, (such as gambling, compulsive shopping, hyper-sexuality, excessive eating and excessive hobby engagement), more than neuro-typical people. Impulsive behaviours can have a significant impact on the person affected and those around them.

Although only a small number of people experience this behaviour, researchers want to help improve how these behaviours are measured. It is hoped this research will assist both clinicians and future research to more accurately identify impulsive behaviours in Parkinson’s.

Participants need to have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s by a neurologist or physician and can be at any stage of diagnosis.

“The person doesn’t have to have issues with impulsivity to contribute as we need a broad range of people as possible,” explains lead researcher Leon Booth.

The research consists of a half hour questionnaire which can be completed in participants’ homes and a 2-hour session, ideally at Curtin University, where participants will be asked to perform different tasks.

It is hoped the research will help reveal what is happening in the brain when people with Parkinson’s engage in impulsive behaviours. This will help people with Parkinson’s access treatment if they need it, and contribute to the understanding of these behaviours.

If you are interested in taking part in this research or want further information, please contact Leon Booth on 0426217735 or by email: leon.booth@postgrad.curtin.edu.au

Comments

Read next

Subscribe to our Talking Aged Care newsletter to get our latest articles, delivered straight to your inbox
  1. A new study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia:...
  2. Our furry friends are more than just pets. They are cherished...
  3. The Department of Health and Aged Care will address the...
  4. As one ages, it’s a good idea to keep as healthy and active...
  5. Lutheran Services has become one of the first Aged Care...
  6. What would you like to see from the new Aged Care Act in...

Recent articles

  1. There are genetic and modifiable factors that make people...
  2. This Easter, tightening connections could help combat...
  3. Improving your diet and increasing exercise could reduce your...
  4. Knowing you can access reliable information in one place could...
  5. Will July be a gamechanger in upholding the rights of older...
  6. What are the lasting impacts of sexism on older women?
  7. How could technology reduce cognitive decline in older...
  8. Do you believe that some workers are more entitled to a raise...
  9. At 2pm AEDT, aged care staff will learn the Fair Work...
  10. Understanding more about the 60-day prescription update to the...
  11. Multiple options are available to organise your medications
  12. Looking to move into the modern age of communication and speak...