No-Escape Room allows people to step into the shoes of people living with Parkinson’s and helps to shift the common misconception that it is a disease of the elderly.

This interactive, experientially led campaign has been specially designed to allow Australians to understand Parkinson’s symptoms through a series of puzzles inspired by everyday tasks such as tying a shoelace, pouring tea and using a computer mouse.

To bring the campaign to life, 15 escape room experts were invited to trial the room, unaware that the escape room is in fact inescapable. Parkinson’s NSW has also launched an interactive, digital version of the escape room to allow more people to experience the No-Escape Room.

The uniquely difficult puzzles in the No-Escape Room are designed to showcase how Parkinson’s symptoms – such as loss of memory, physical tremors, stiffness, confusion, difficulty multi-tasking and blurred vision – can impact a person’s ability to complete everyday movements and tasks.

Jo-Anne Reeves, CEO of Parkinson’s NSW, said:

“Parkinson’s is a complex and misunderstood disease often associated with older people, but that is not the case. With 18 per cent of people living with Parkinson’s of working age, it is very important we increase the level of awareness among younger Australians.

For people living with Parkinson’s, there is no escape from their symptoms. They often feel like they can’t escape the challenges associated with day-to-day activities and movements such as pouring a cup of tea or tying a shoelace.

We understand this can be hard to relate to, which is why we have launched this campaign, to allow Australians to step directly into the shoes of a person living with Parkinson’s. We don’t yet know the cause of Parkinson’s, nor is there a cure. However vital research continues so we must keep building awareness to support that ongoing work. Without this research, there will be neither quality of life nor a cure for people living with Parkinson’s.”

Steve Schiemer, fitness coach and Board Member of Parkinson’s NSW explains the shock of receiving his Parkinson’s diagnosis at age 40.

“I was stunned by my diagnosis because I had been repeatedly told I was too young and too fit to have Parkinson’s. Frankly, I lived in denial for about 18 months until it became harder for me to walk… then I could not deny it any longer. As a Board Member of Parkinson’s NSW who is living with Young Onset Parkinson’s, I fully support this creative campaign.

The No-Escape Room will both educate people and build awareness of Parkinson’s – and also hopefully result in greater acceptance and understanding of members of our community.”

Experience the No-Escape Room, watch the full video of the escape room experts trialing the room, learn more about Parkinson’s and donate at www.noescaperoom.com.au