Effects of a Modified Tap Dance Program on Ankle Function and Postural Control in Older Adults: A Randomized...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Exercise Physiology
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Older adults face increased fall risk due to age-related physical decline.
• Ankle function and postural control are critical for mobility and fall prevention in seniors.
• Exercise interventions are explored to mitigate these age-related risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of a 12-week modified tap dance program on ankle function and postural control in healthy older adults.
• To compare the effects of the modified tap dance program against a control group.

Main Methods:

• Forty-four healthy older adults were randomized into a modified tap dance (MTD) group or a control (CON) group.
• The MTD group engaged in 12 weeks of training (3 sessions/week, 30 min/session).
• Ankle strength (five times sit-to-stand test), ankle range of motion (goniometer), and postural control (Footscan® center of pressure) were assessed.

Main Results:

• The MTD group showed significant improvements in the five times sit-to-stand test and ankle plantar flexion.
• Compared to the CON group, the MTD group exhibited greater improvements in the five times sit-to-stand test and plantar flexion at midtest.
• No significant improvements in postural control were observed in the MTD group.

Conclusions:

• Modified tap dance is an effective exercise for enhancing ankle function, including strength and range of motion, in healthy older adults.
• The program demonstrated limited efficacy in improving postural control in this demographic.
• Further research may be needed to optimize exercise protocols for comprehensive fall risk reduction in older adults.