Aging is associated with a decline in physical and cognitive function affecting autonomy and the ability to perform daily living activities. Interventions aiming the promotion of healthy aging and life-long learning are required to improve physical and cognitive health in a social context.
Dance is a cultural and physical activity that can be well adapted for older adults. Dance might counteract physical and cognitive functional decline and promotes social and emotional interactions. Importantly, dance can be individually adjusted in terms of physical fitness and cultural background. However, to date, there is a lack of research on the effects of a dance intervention with older adults setting to promote healthy aging and lifelong learning. Thus, this research project aims to explore the impact of a dance-based intervention with older adults from the community on physical, cognitive and psycho-emotional health while simultaneously generating inclusive artistic experiences and lifelong learning opportunities.
The study includes a quantitative quasi-experimental design. The study sample consists of healthy individuals from the community aged ≥ 50 years recruited through community programs and social media platforms. Those who agree to participate will be informed of the project objectives and procedures. Participation in the study is voluntary, and all participants will be required to sign a voluntary informed consent form.
Participants will be assigned to a dance training group, Multicomponent Exercise Group or the control group (no intervention). Outcomes will be measured using the Astrand Cycle Ergometer Submaximal Test, Open Circuit Pirometer Technique, Battery Senior Fitness Test, Isokinetic Dynamometer and Handgrip Dynamometer to assess physical fitness, Accelerometer, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index to assess physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and sleep; psychoemotional questionnaires validated on Portuguese subjects to assess psychoemotional variables; tape measure and bioeletric impedance balance to assess body composition; digital sphygmomanometer and spirometry to assess cardiovascular and respiratory function; neurocognitive and psychological tests to assess cognitive function; and electroencephalography to assess electrophysiology.