A recent study published in PLOS One examines how dance programs can enhance the health and well-being of older adults. Researchers analyzed various dance styles and their specific benefits, highlighting the growing interest in the health advantages of cultural activities over the past few decades. Dance is recommended as a suitable exercise for older individuals, with group participation proving to be an accessible and effective way to promote health. However, inconsistencies in research methodologies and outcomes present challenges in interpreting the findings. The authors call for more theory-driven research and improved reporting standards in the field.
Overview of the Study
In this scoping review, researchers aimed to evaluate the impact of dance on older adults’ health and well-being. They searched multiple databases, including Web of Science and MEDLINE, for studies focusing on adults aged 55 and older. Studies that involved participants with specific health conditions or those undergoing rehabilitation were excluded.
The researchers screened titles and abstracts, extracting data on study details, participant characteristics, and the delivery of dance programs. They also examined how factors like age, gender, and socio-economic status influenced participation and outcomes.
To categorize dance programs, the study used the Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR) tool. Outcomes were analyzed based on core measurement taxonomies from effectiveness trials. The researchers summarized the data using narrative and numerical analyses, along with descriptive statistics.
Key Findings
The database searches revealed over 7,000 studies, but only 148 met the criteria for inclusion. The first study was published in 1980, with a noticeable increase in publications since the mid-2000s. Of the studies reviewed, 50.7% were randomized controlled trials (RCTs), 20.3% were non-RCTs, and mixed-method approaches, combining qualitative and quantitative data, were more prevalent in recent years.
The 148 studies involved 115 trials with a total of 8,060 participants, averaging 70 per trial. Approximately 68% of trials took place in community settings, and 96% of programs were delivered in-person. Many trials targeted adults in late middle age, with 33 trials specifically recruiting individuals aged 85 and older.
While 22 dance programs were designed for women, no programs focused solely on men. Mixed-gender groups constituted 70% of trials, with an average of 75% female participation. Only seven trials included low-income participants, emphasizing a need for more inclusive research that reaches underserved populations.
About 21% of trials required prior dance experience. The dance styles were categorized into various genres, including modern dance, folk, ballroom, and dance movement therapy (DMT). Ballroom and folk dance styles showed significant physical and emotional benefits.
In 67.8% of trials, a clear goal or theory for the dance program was reported. Reasons for participating in dance varied widely, including exercise, creative aging, fall prevention, and the activity’s social nature. This diversity suggests that dance programs can be tailored to meet the varied needs of older adults.
The researchers found that 32 trials reported the physical intensity of the dance programs, typically involving 60-minute sessions two or three times per week over 12 to 16 weeks.
Safety and Effectiveness
Program safety was reported in only 28 trials. Of those, two were deemed safe, and 15 reported no adverse events. The most common outcomes assessed included motor functioning, with significant improvements noted in 48.5% of the trials. Improvements in cardiovascular strength and endurance were observed in 60.2% of relevant trials.
While emotional and social benefits were frequently reported—especially in creative and folk dance programs—the cognitive benefits were less pronounced. Dance consistently showed positive results in physical functioning and cardiovascular health, particularly in ballroom dance.
Conclusion
This review outlines the range and effectiveness of dance programs for older adults. The findings indicate that dance is a safe, meaningful, and cost-effective way to promote health. The authors recommend future research prioritize inclusive designs that engage underserved communities. Improved reporting standards will aid in synthesizing evidence and designing more effective programs moving forward.
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