Dancing Through Parkinson's: Impacts on Quality of Life and Socioemotional Experiences

Introduction: Dance has been studied as a beneficial intervention that enhances the physical and socioemotional well-being of individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD). This study explores how regular dance practice can enhance the quality of life for individuals with PD, focusing on their perceptions and socioemotional experiences. Methods: Adopting a phenomenological approach, the research employed qualitative methods, specifically semi-structured interviews. The collected data were transcribed, categorized, and analyzed using IRAMUTEQ^® software. Results: Over 11 months, 20 interviews were conducted, yielding 7 subcategories. Participants were selected based on their involvement in a dance program tailored to individuals with PD, irrespective of gender, and if they maintained preserved cognitive function. The participants' narratives revealed a strong perceived relationship between dance and an enhanced quality of life. Participants described dance as a therapeutic activity that fosters improved self-esteem, joy, and social interaction. Conclusion: The qualitative analysis indicated that regular dance practice positively impacts the physical, social, and emotional dimensions of life for individuals with PD.