Effects of Engaging Older Adults in Technology-Based Dance Programs

Abstract

Functionality is a crucial aspect of aging that is vital to one’s health and well-being. Older adults often struggle with mobility issues, which increases their risk of injury from falls and other problems. Dancing has the potential to be a physically stimulating activity that may be tailored to older individuals’ ages, physical conditions, and cultural preferences. The study aimed to determine whether dancing programs can improve older adults’ physical and mental health by using technology. Sixty women were divided into two groups at random: a dance group (N = 33; mean age 62.24) and a dance group using technology (N = 27, mean age 67.37). The intervention lasted six months and was performed twice a week for 75-min sessions. Dances were chosen from all over Greece. Participants’ physical and cognitive status was evaluated before and after the intervention. The results show that the dance group improved balance (p = 0.001), lower body strength (p = 0.006) and aerobic capacity (p = 0.006), while the dance group with the use of technology shower greater improvement in the same tests (p = 0.002, p < 0.0001 and p < 0.0001). Both groups improved on walking balance and danger of falling (p < 0.0001). Depression (p = 0.007) and sociability (p = 0.001) significantly improved in the dance group. Dance, an enjoyable activity, contributes to the well-being of older adults by maintaining their physical status and functional capacity at acceptable levels.