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 adults and moderating participant, methods, intervention characteristics. Methods searched 14 databases using search terms: AND Researchers primary studies compared with control groups adults≥60 years old, measured cognition, wrote English. Two researchers independently coded discussed achieve consensus. Using random-effects model, we computed effect sizes (ES) Hedges’ g 95%CIs along heterogeneity statistics conducted moderator analyses. Results Twenty-five included 1,908 participants (70.9±5.2years old). had a strong, positive both global (ES=0.52, 95%CI [0.25, 0.78], p=.000) memory (ES=0.56, [0.08, 1.04], p=.022) moderate executive function (ES=0.35, [0.06, 0.65], p=.019) attention (ES=0.21, 0.36], p=.005). Several variables moderated relationship including country, dancing pairs or not, partners vs. non-partners. Methodological quality indicators was computing priori power comparing participant characteristics at baseline. Weeks minutes/session also relationship. Conclusion can significantly Healthcare providers might use as an alternative treatment Future should explore type dances measure outcome changes over time.