Co – Design of a Dance Exercise Intervention for People Living with Dementia and their Care Partners
Niamh Kelly, Fiona Skelly, Kieran Dowd, Desmond O'Neill, Noel McCaffery, Clare McDermott- Psychiatry and Mental health
- Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience
- Geriatrics and Gerontology
- Neurology (clinical)
- Developmental Neuroscience
- Health Policy
- Epidemiology
Abstract
Background
Living with dementia can negatively impact quality of life (QOL) by affecting social, physical, and mental capabilities (Thumuluri et al. 2022). Care partners are at an increased risk of decline to their physical and mental health due to their role (Teahan et al. 2021). Dance provides benefits associated with an exercise intervention, including protective measures against cognitive decline, benefits in strength, brain function and connectivity with added balance and memory enhancements found in dance interventions (Tao et al. 2021, Wu et al. 2021). The study’s aim is to explore exercise preferences of PLWD, care partners and recommendations from the literature.
Method
A base of evidence was identified, by a literature review, focusing on how physical activity, exercise and dance interventions impact PLWD and care partners. A patient advisory group (PAG) was established to provide feedback on study methods. Interview guides were created for PLWD and care partners using the Behaviour Change Wheel Framework (Michie et al. 2011) (BCW). The PAG gave their insight on the suitability of the questions. Questions were based around physical activity knowledge and preferences of the participants. A range of recruitment methods were used, relevant organisations were contacted, site visits were made, recruitment information was shared on social media. Focus groups and interviews are currently being conducted with PLWD and care partners, data collection will be completed by March. The results will be analysed by thematic analysis using NVivo software.
Result
The literature review found physical activity and exercise provide physical and psychological benefits for PLWD and care partners. Dance is impactful as it combines physical, social and cognitive activities. Preliminary findings from the focus groups identified themes including, physical activity, exercise, dance, and social support. Participants were aware of the benefits of physical activity and exercise. Many participants described dance as enjoyable, but intimidating to join a class. The social aspect of the class is one of the most important components for these populations.
Conclusion
The lived experience of PLWD and care partners highlights dance as a potential intervention approach to improve QOL, increase social support, and to enhance the acceptance and impact of the intervention.