Effects of Dance Interventions on Cognition in Older Adults: A Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Background Dance interventions have been shown to improve cognition in older adults. However, no meta-analysis evaluates that effect. Objective: We examined the effects of dance on cognition in older adults and examined the moderating effects of participant, methods, and intervention characteristics. Methods We searched 14 databases using the search terms: dance AND cognition AND older adults. Researchers of primary studies compared dance with control groups of adults≥60 years old, measured cognition, and wrote in English. Two researchers independently coded studies and discussed to achieve consensus. Using the random-effects model, we computed effect sizes (ES) using Hedges’ g with 95%CIs along with heterogeneity statistics and conducted moderator analyses. Results Twenty-five studies included 1,908 participants (70.9±5.2years old). Dance had a strong, positive effect on both global cognition (ES=0.52, 95%CI [0.25, 0.78], p=.000) and memory (ES=0.56, 95%CI [0.08, 1.04], p=.022) and a moderate effect on executive function (ES=0.35, 95%CI [0.06, 0.65], p=.019) and attention (ES=0.21, 95%CI [0.06, 0.36], p=.005). Several variables moderated the relationship including the country, dancing in pairs or not, or with partners vs. non-partners. Methodological quality indicators that moderated the relationship was computing a priori power and comparing participant characteristics at baseline. Weeks of dancing and minutes/session also moderated the relationship. Conclusion Dance can significantly improve cognition in older adults. Healthcare providers might use dance interventions as an alternative treatment to improve cognition in older adults. Future researchers should explore the effects of type of dances on cognition and measure outcome changes over time.

More Than Just Movement: Exploring Embodied Group Synchrony During Seated Dance for Older Adults Living in Residential Aged Care Communities

“…Research has demonstrated that reminiscence therapy that utilises music familiar with past experiences can be a powerful delivery method (Cuevas et al, 2020). Rittiwong et al (2023) suggest that dance tailored to older adults' cultural backgrounds may promote enjoyment and alleviate depression. From a phenomenological point of view, past experiences are physically stored in the body, and dance has been suggested as a way to elicit memories during reminiscence therapy (Klever, 2013; Skinner, 2010).…”

Psychological aspects of rehabilitation nutrition: A position paper by the Japanese Association of Rehabilitation Nutrition (secondary publication)

“…53 In older adults, dance was helpful in improving depressive symptoms. 54 A network meta-analysis comparing exercise and pharmacotherapy for nonsevere depression found that exercise had a higher dropout rate than pharmacotherapy, but was equally effective in reducing depressive symptoms. 55 Physical activity is beneficial in the prevention and treatment of depression.…”

“…Tai chi was useful in improving depression, anxiety, and general mental health 53 . In older adults, dance was helpful in improving depressive symptoms 54 . A network meta‐analysis comparing exercise and pharmacotherapy for non‐severe depression found that exercise had a higher dropout rate than pharmacotherapy, but was equally effective in reducing depressive symptoms 55 …”