In this powerful and practical presentation, Barbara Cullinan — Founder, Director and Senior Physiotherapist at The Parkinson’s Centre — delivers one of the most actionable talks of the conference. She explains how movement, novelty, connection and challenge can change the trajectory of cognitive decline for both people living with Parkinson’s and their carers.
About This Video
Barbara covers essential, evidence-based strategies for protecting brain health, including:
- Why both people with Parkinson’s and their carers face increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia
- The difference between normal ageing, mild cognitive impairment and dementia
- The science behind neuroplasticity and how to train the brain at any age
- How movement + novelty + cognitive challenge work together to strengthen the brain
- The role of aerobic exercise, resistance training, balance, coordination and dual-tasking
- Why novelty increases dopamine and boosts motivation
- How social connection protects the brain and reduces decline
- Practical ways to implement movement, novelty and connection immediately
- How to time medication and exercise for best results
- Tools such as gait harnesses and wearable devices used at The Parkinson’s Centre
Barbara’s message is clear: waiting is not an option. You can take meaningful action today to protect your brain and improve long-term outcomes.
Key Themes & Keywords
Parkinson’s cognitive decline, Parkinson’s dementia risk, Barbara Cullinan, Parkinson’s Centre, neuroplasticity Parkinson’s, dual-task training, novelty exercise, dementia prevention, brain health strategies, aerobic exercise, resistance training, social connection, carers and Parkinson’s, mild cognitive impairment, Parkinson’s freezing gait, motivation dopamine Parkinson’s, Parkinson’s support, Parkinson’s physio.
Who This Video Is For
- People living with Parkinson’s
- Carers and partners
- Physiotherapists, EPs and allied health clinicians
- Neurologists and movement disorder professionals
- Families wanting to understand cognitive changes
- Anyone looking to improve brain health across the lifespan
