Adapted Tango for Adults With Parkinson's Disease: A Qualitative Study

Area of Science:

• Neurorehabilitation
• Movement Therapy
• Qualitative Research

Background:

• Parkinson's disease (PD) significantly impacts daily functioning and quality of life (QOL).
• Exploring novel, engaging interventions is crucial for managing PD symptoms and enhancing well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the lived experiences of individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD) in an adapted tango program.
• To investigate the perceived impact of adapted tango on participation and quality of life (QOL) in persons with PD.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving 16 participants with Parkinson's disease (PD).
• Data collected via focus groups during the intervention and at a six-month follow-up.
• Inductive thematic analysis used to analyze qualitative data.

Main Results:

• Key themes emerged regarding living with PD, class experiences, and participant expectations.
• Participants reported multiple positive effects on participation and QOL.
• Structured, skillfully instructed adapted tango may improve daily activity skills.

Conclusions:

• Adapted tango shows potential as a beneficial intervention for individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD).
• The intervention may enhance participation in daily activities and improve overall quality of life (QOL).
• Further research into structured, adapted tango programs for PD management is warranted.