Effects of dance on cognitive function in older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: dance is a mind-body activity that stimulates neuroplasticity. We explored the effect of dance on cognitive function in older adults. Methods: we searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL and Psydnfo databases from inception to August 2020 (PROS-PERO:CRD42017057138). Inclusion criteria were (i) randomised controlled trials (ii) older adults (aged >= 55 years), (iii) intervention-dance and (iv) outcome-cognitive function. Cognitive domains were classified with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-5 Neurocognitive Framework. Meta-analyses were performed in RevMan5.3 and certainty of evidence with GradePro. Results: we reviewed 3,997 records and included 11 studies (N = 1,412 participants). Seven studies included only healthy older adults and four included those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Dance interventions varied in frequency (1-3 x /week), time (35-60 minutes), duration (3-12 months) and type. We found a mean difference (MD) = 1.58 (95% confidence interval [CI) = 0.21-2.95) on the Mini Mental State Examination for global cognitive function (moderatecertainty evidence), and the Wechsler Memory Test for learning and memory had an MD = 3.02 (95% CI = 1.38-4.65; low-certainty evidence). On the Trail Making Test-A for complex attention, MD = 3.07 (95% CI = -0.81 to 6.95; high-certainty evidence) and on the Trail Making Test-B for executive function, MD = -4.12 (95% CI = -21.28 to 13.03; moderatecertainty evidence). Subgroup analyses did not suggest consistently greater effects in older adults with MCI. Evidence is uncertain for language, and no studies evaluated social cognition or perceptual-motor function. Conclusions: dance probably improves global cognitive function and executive function. However, there is little difference in complex attention, and evidence also suggests little effect on learning and memory. Future research is needed to determine the optimal dose and if dance results in greater cognitive benefits than other types of physical activity and exercise.

Automated summary

This study explored the effect of dance on cognitive function in older adults and found that dance probably improves global cognitive function and executive function. However, the impact on complex attention and learning and memory is minimal. Future research is needed to determine the optimal dose of dance intervention and to compare cognitive benefits between dance and other types of physical activity.