Moving online: Experiences and potential benefits of digital dance for older adults and individuals with Parkinson’s disease

This is the authors' abstract. We don't add key points for this paper.

Background. Dance is found to provide a range of beneficial effects for older adults including individuals with age-related neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease (PD). The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the development of at-home dance programs delivered digitally through live and pre-recorded media, but little is known about how participants may engage with and benefit from these resources. Objective. This study explored experiences and potential benefits of digital dance resources among healthy older adults and individuals with neurological conditions. Methods. An online survey consisting of fixed-choice and open questions was designed in collaboration with dance program providers and distributed between June and November 2020. Results. High levels of engagement in at-home dance programs were found among healthy older adults (N = 149) and individuals with PD (N = 178). Sensorimotor outcomes (e.g., balance, posture) were more widely reported among individuals with PD, while older adults reported similar numbers of sensorimotor and non-motor (e.g., mood, confidence) outcomes. The use of strategies (imagery and vocalising) during participation were differentially associated with outcomes in older adults and PD groups. At-home dance was found to offer convenience and flexibility, but participants missed the interaction, support and routine of in-person classes. The majority expressed a preference to continue with both digital and in-person participation in the future. Qualitative analysis of participants’ comments reinforced the quantitative findings, while also revealing that online dance could help to maintain connection and well-being, and identifying further considerations for improving accessibility and facilitating digital engagement. Conclusions. At-home dance programs appear to be accessible and engaging for older adults, including individuals with PD, although potential barriers to participation need to be addressed. Digital resources for home-based activities will be increasingly important to enable cost-effective, large-scale provision of therapeutic activities for older adults.