Dance-Specific Activity in People Living With Dementia: A Conceptual Framework and Systematic Review of Its Effects on Neuropsychiatric Symptoms

Abstract

Objectives Dance as a non-pharmacological therapy is commonly used in dementia care, although the evidence of its effects remains unclear. This study systematically reviewed the effects of dance interventions on neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) in people living with dementia. To systematically identify and evaluate dance interventions, a standardized terminology for Dance-Specific Activity (DSA) is proposed. Methods Literature search was conducted on electronic databases until April 30th 2021. Studies were included when they quantified the effects of DSA on NPS in people with clinical diagnosis of dementia. Included studies were analyzed in detail for NPS. Study quality was assessed by PEDro scale (German version). Results 4 studies were included. The studies differed in study design, intervention protocols, dance styles, or measurement tools, and were generally of low study quality. Two trials showed improvements in NPS and 2 trials showed no exacerbation of NPS after DSA. Conclusions The results of the 4 available trials indicate a positive tendency towards the effects of DSA, but considering the limitations of the few available studies, a clear statement about the effects of DSA is not possible yet. Based on the included trials, the following implications for clinical research and routine care can be derived: (1) DSA seems to be a practical terminology for identifying dance interventions (2) DSA seems to be a safe intervention for people living with dementia. (3) Different dance styles can be used. (4) DSA approaches should be better structured by differentiating between the domains type, content, intention, and protocol of the intervention.

“It doesn’t feel like exercise”: a realist process evaluation of factors that support long-term attendance at dance classes designed for healthy ageing

“…For people with early dementia or elevated risk of dementia, dance has been shown to be safe with high levels of acceptability and positive neurological impacts across different cultural and disadvantaged groups (47)(48)(49)(50). Reported impacts include improvements in learning skills, immediate and delayed recall, attention and social functioning (15,51).…”