Does dance counteract age-related cognitive and brain declines in middle-aged and older adults? A systematic review

Abstract

Background: Dance is a multidomain activity that combines aerobic, coordination and cognitive exercise. This music-associated physical and cognitive exercise is a leisure activity that motivates people, elicits emotions, and avoids boredom, promoting adherence to practice. Continuing physical activity is of paramount importance, since cognitive benefits tend to disappear or even reverse when training ceases.

Objective: The question we addressed in this systematic review is what influence dance has on the brain and cognition of healthy middle-aged and older adults.

Literature survey: We systematically reviewed the effects of dance on brain and cognition in older adults using MEDLINE, Psyc-Info, PubMed and Scopus databases.

Methodology: After screening 1051 studies, thirty-five met the eligibility inclusion criteria. These studies showed that dance improves brain structure and function as well as physical and cognitive functions.

Conclusions: The protective effect of dance training on cognition in older adults, together with the possibility of adapting intensity and style to suit possible physical limitations makes this activity very suitable for older adults.

Keywords: Aging; Dance; Music; Neuroplasticity; Physical exercise.