Caro Cools

About me

My interests in Parkinson’s disease started during my Bachelor’s studies in 2016, where I was involved in a dance intervention and happiness study for individuals with Parkinson’s. Later, during my master’s in Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience (specialization Neuropsychology), my research interests expanded to music interventions as well as the influence of motivation on exercise adherence. Now, I collaborated with Radboud UMC in Nijmegen to further work in this line of research.

I am enthusiastic and enjoy traveling, photography, and discovering new places.

Research

In Parkinson’s research, there has been an emphasis on understanding the biology behind the disease and prevention. However, it is equally important to provide support for individuals currently diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. While medical treatments primarily target motor symptoms, non-pharmacological interventions, such as exercise, play a significant role in managing symptoms that may not respond as well to medication. These interventions can have a positive impact on daily activities, quality of life, self-esteem, and overall happiness.

My primary research interests lies in understanding the factors that drive motivation and adherence to exercise among individuals with Parkinson disease. Recognizing the crucial role of exercise adherence in managing the symptoms and improving the overall well-being.

Methods

• Behavioral measures
• SPSS

Qualifications and Professional Experience

• 2024 – current: external PhD candidate at Maastricht University (Maastricht, The Netherlands). Supervision: Prof. Dr. Sonja Kotz, Dr. Annelien Duits, Dr. Nienke de Vries, and Prof. Dr. Bas Bloem
• 2020 – 2023: Freelance research in collaboration with Radboud UMC (Nijmegen, The Netherlands) and Maastricht University (Maastricht, The Netherlands). Supervision: Prof. Dr. Sonja Kotz, Dr. Annelien Duits, Dr. Nienke de Vries, and Prof. Dr. Bas Bloem
• 2020-2021: Research assistent Maastricht Universiteit and Expertisecentrum Hersenletsel Limburg (Maastricht, The Netherlands)
• 2018 – 2020: Research Master Cognitive & Clinical Neuroscience Psychology (specialization Neuropsychology) at Maastricht University (Maastricht, The Netherlands)
• 2016: Extra course in Science of Happiness at Berkeley University (California, USA)
• 2014 – 2017: Bachelor of Science in Psychology (specialization Brain and Cognition) at Radboud University (Nijmegen, The Netherlands)