Effects of the LSVT BIG® on Occupational Performance and Functional Skills in Parkinson’s Disease: A Case Study

Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) leads to motor decline and reduced occupational performance. Limited evidence addresses if gains from the LSVT BIG® are sustained, particularly in occupation-focused outcomes. Objective: This single-subject study evaluated the effects of the LSVT BIG® on occupational performance and functional skill outcomes in a 69-year-old woman with PD, and whether improvements were sustained 8 weeks postintervention. Methods: The participant completed 16 1-hr LSVT BIG® sessions over 4 weeks. Outcomes included the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM), the Performance Assessment of Self-Care Skills (PASS), the Five Times Sit to Stand (FTSTS), and the Functional Reach Test (FRT). Assessments occurred at baseline, immediately postintervention, and 8-week follow-up. Data were analyzed using visual analysis and comparison to established clinical significance thresholds. Results: The COPM scores for performance improved from 4.4 to 7.4 and satisfaction from 5.0 to 7.4, with sustained gains at follow-up (7.6). The PASS scores improved from 2/3 to 3/3 across selected tasks. The FTSTS improved 34% from baseline (13.93s to 9.17s at follow-up). The FRT increased by 4.75 inches, exceeding clinically meaningful change. Conclusion: Findings suggest the LSVT BIG® may improve and sustain both occupational performance and functional skills in PD. Larger studies with extended follow-up are warranted.