Mood changes following social dance sessions in people with Parkinson's disease
Journal of Health Psychology: An Interdisciplinary, International Journal
Published online on April 21, 2014
Abstract
Dance interventions have physical benefits for the elderly, especially those with Parkinson’s disease. This study assessed the psychological benefits of dance. A total of 37 participants, with either Parkinson’s disease (n = 22) or age-matched controls (n = 15) completed mood questionnaires before and after a 10-week dance intervention. An overall reduction in total mood disturbance and a specific reduction in anger were observed. In addition, less fatigue was found for those initially scoring higher in depression. This suggests that dance can provide psychological benefits for both people with Parkinson’s disease and the elderly, with findings suggesting that this is an avenue to be explored further.