Dancing as an Intervention Tool for People with Dementia: A Mini-Review Dancing and Dementia

Curr Alzheimer Res. 2017;14(12):1264-1269. doi: 10.2174/1567205014666170713161422.

Abstract

Background: Research studies show a positive impact of physical activities such as dancing on the improvement of cognitive reserves of people with dementia.

Objective: The purpose of this study is to explore dancing efficacy on people with dementia and list the key benefits and limitations of dancing therapy for these people.

Methods: The methods used in this study include a method of literature review of available Englishwritten sources with respect to the dancing therapy and dementia in the acknowledged databases Pub- Med, Web of Science, Springer, and Scopus, and a method of comparison and evaluation of their findings.

Results: The findings of this mini review confirm positive efficacy of dancing therapy on cognitive, physical, emotional and social performance of people with dementia.

Conclusion: More randomized controlled clinical trials should be conducted in this field, as well as other non-pharmacological therapies should be employed in order to holistically contribute to the prevention and treatment of dementia.

Keywords: Dementia; benefits; dancing; efficacy; findings; limitations; review..

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Dance Therapy / methods*
  • Dementia / physiopathology*
  • Dementia / rehabilitation*
  • Exercise*
  • Humans