Cognitive Groove (Brought to You by GERAS DANCE)
This study explores if a dance program called "Cognitive Groove" can help older adults in the UK who are experiencing frailty. Researchers want to see if dancing twice a week for three months improves things like their ability to move, their strength, and how they feel overall compared to those receiving regular care. They're also checking if it helps with balance, mood, memory, and quality of life. The study aims to understand if these dance classes are a good and affordable way to help older people stay active and live better in their communities.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Imagine you're getting a bit older and finding everyday things like walking or carrying groceries a bit harder than they used to be. This feeling is sometimes called 'frailty.' This study, called 'Cognitive Groove,' wants to see if a special dance program can help older people in the UK who are experiencing this. The program is designed to be fun and get people moving.
The main idea is to compare people who take part in these dance classes with those who continue with their usual lives. Researchers will look at whether dancing helps improve things like how well people can move, their strength, and their balance. They also want to know if it helps with worries about falling, boosts mood, improves memory, and makes daily activities easier. Ultimately, the study hopes to discover if a community dance program can make a real difference to the quality of life for older adults.
Another important part of this study is to find out if these dance classes are a good value. If they prove to be helpful, understanding their cost-effectiveness could encourage more communities to offer similar programs. This could mean more ways for older people to stay active, independent, and connected in their local areas.
Key takeaways
- This study explores dance for older adults with frailty.
- 'Cognitive Groove' aims to improve movement, strength, and well-being.
- Participation involves 3 months of dance classes (twice weekly) or usual care.
- Potential benefits include better balance, mood, and daily living.
- Your doctor needs to approve your participation for safety.
- The study also looks at if dance classes are a good value for money.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for people aged 65 or older who live in their own homes or with family (not in a care home). You should feel a bit frail or find it harder to move around than you used to. You need to be able to walk by yourself for about 25 metres (that's about the length of two double-decker buses), even if you use a walking stick or frame. You also need to be able to understand simple instructions.
Before you can join, your doctor will need to check that it's safe for you to take part in exercise. If you refer yourself, your family doctor will need to provide this clearance. You also need to be able to get to the YMCA twice a week for the dance classes.
However, some people won't be able to join. This includes if you can't speak or understand English well, if you're already doing lots of structured exercise or physical therapy, or if you have certain serious heart or lung conditions, severe arthritis (like waiting for a joint replacement), Parkinson's disease, or other ongoing nerve conditions. If you're receiving end-of-life care or have travel plans that would make you miss more than two weeks, you also wouldn't be able to join.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 65 years old or older?
- Do you live at home (not in a care home)?
- Can you walk about 25 metres (with or without a walking aid)?
- Can you understand simple instructions in English?
- Are you able to arrange transport to the YMCA twice a week?
- Are you free from serious heart or lung conditions?
What does participation involve?
If you join this study, you'll either take part in the "Cognitive Groove" dance classes or continue with your usual routine (this is called 'usual care'). The dance classes happen twice a week for three months. You would need to travel to a YMCA for these classes. During the study, researchers will ask you questions and do some assessments to see how you're doing, for example, your movement, strength, and how you feel. We don't have details on exactly how many visits you'll need after the initial setup or what specific assessments will involve, but the total duration of the active part of the study is three months for those in the dance group. The researchers will then follow up to see the long-term effects after 12 months.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Geras Centre for Aging Research, St. Peter's Hospital, Hamilton Health SciencesVerified postcodeHamilton, Canada· Recruiting
Common questions
What exactly is 'frailty'?
Frailty means feeling weaker and less able to do everyday tasks as you get older, making you more vulnerable to health changes.
Do I need previous dance experience?
No, you don't need any dance experience. The classes are designed for everyone to enjoy and benefit from.
How long will the dance classes last?
If you are in the dance group, you will attend classes twice a week for three months.
What if I can't get to the YMCA?
You need to be able to arrange your own transport to the YMCA for the classes.
Will I know if I'm in the dance group or the usual care group?
The study design will explain how participants are assigned to groups, and this will be made clear to you if you join.
How to find out more
Patricia Hewston, PhD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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