Robotic Walking Device to Improve Mobility in Parkinson's Disease

Gait assessments will be conducted on participants randomized to the Trained group first during unassisted walking followed by HWA-assisted walking. Participants randomized to the Trained group will receive physical therapist supervised home and community-based walking training wearing the HWA device 2 times per week for 45-60 minutes for 8 weeks. Training will consist of walking in and outside of the home while encouraging larger and more symmetrical steps with practice of activities that challenge the person's balance and motor control. Rest breaks will be allowed as needed. If the therapist is unable to adjust the HWA to provide a safe gait pattern, the session will be ended and the device removed.

The Untrained group will continue their usual daily activities including any exercise regimen that they typically perform. However, they will be asked not to start any new exercise program during the study period.