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Published on: December 9, 2014
Dance, aging, and neuroplasticity: an integrative review
1Physical Education, School of Physical Education, Federal University Vale Do São Francisco, Petrolina, PE-Brazil.
Dancing enhances brain plasticity in older adults, improving cognitive function and increasing brain volume. This review highlights dance as a beneficial activity for healthy aging and neuroprotection.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
- Kinesiology
Background:
- Neuroplasticity is crucial for cognitive function in aging.
- Understanding interventions that promote brain health in older adults is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the effects of dance on neuroplasticity in healthy older adults.
- To identify structural and functional brain changes associated with dance.
- To determine effective dance training strategies.
Main Methods:
- Integrative review of studies published between 2010-2020.
- Searches conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases.
- Included randomized clinical trials, quasi-experimental, cross-sectional, and cohort studies.
Main Results:
- Dance practice correlated with improved functional connectivity.
- Cognitive performance showed enhancement following dance interventions.
- Increased brain volumes were observed in older adults who danced.
Conclusions:
- Dance training positively influences neuroplasticity in healthy older individuals.
- Dance is a promising non-pharmacological intervention for cognitive aging.
- Further research into dance-based neuroprotection strategies is warranted.
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