Mood Changes Following Social Dance Sessions in People with Parkinson’s Disease
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Author
Lewis, Carine
Annett, Lucy
Davenport, Sally
Hall, Amelia
Lovatt, Peter
Attention
2299/17641
Abstract
Dance interventions have physical benefits for the elderly, especially those with Parkinson’s disease. This study assessed the psychological benefits of dance. Thirty-seven participants with Parkinson’s (n=22) or age-matched controls (n=15) completed mood questionnaires before and after a ten-week dance intervention. An overall reduction in mood and a specific reduction in anger were observed. In addition, less fatigue was found for those initially scoring higher in depression. This suggests dance can provide psychological benefits for both people with Parkinson’s and the elderly with findings suggesting that this is an avenue to be explored further.