The effectiveness of dance movement interventions for older adults with mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer’s disease, and dementia: A systematic scoping review and meta-analysis

Objectives

To synthesize evidence and summarize research findings related to the effectiveness and feasibility of dance movement intervention (DMI) in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and dementia; to systemically map existing research gaps and research directions for future practice.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted using six electronic databases: Web of Science, PubMed, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. The methodological quality of included studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for Randomized Trials (RoB 2) and The Risk of Bias in Non-randomized Studies of Interventions (ROBINS-I).

Results

29 dance intervention studies (13 RCT studies) were included in the scoping review: 62% of MCI, 10% of AD, and 28% of dementia; a total of 1708 participants (Female=1247; Male=461) aged from 63.8 ( ± 5.24) to 85.8 ( ± 5.27) years old. Eight RCT studies were included in the meta-analysis; results indicated that dance interventions had a significant effect on global cognition, memory, balance, and significantly decreased depression. No significant effects were found for executive function.

Conclusions

Dance is a non-pharmacological, effective, affordable, and engaging intervention that can be used as a complementary treatment for older adults with MCI, AD, and dementia.