Experiences of Participants in Intergenerational Dance Programmes: A Qualitative Evidence Synthesis

Introduction: Intergenerational programmes can provide numerous benefits including fostering meaningful relationships and improving understanding of other age groups. Despite a recent increase in popularity, intergenerational dance programmes remain under-researched and under-synthesised. The aim of this review was to synthesise the qualitative research on participants' opinions and experiences of intergenerational dance programmes. Methods: A qualitative evidence synthesis was conducted. Nine databases (CINAHL, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database, PubMed/Medline (Central), PsycINFO, Cochrane-Central, Web of Science, Scopus, Performing Arts Periodicals Database, and Applied Social Sciences Indexes and Abstracts were searched using search terms including intergenerational and dance. Papers were screened using Rayyan software and critically appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme. The trustworthiness of the findings was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative Research (CERQual) tool. Thematic synthesis was used to analyse the findings. Results: Six papers were included in the final synthesis. The first theme Socialisation, Communication and Participant Connections and its two sub-themes Building an intra and intergenerational community and Intergenerational Bonds Formed through Dance demonstrated that the dance aspect was just as important and enjoyable for participants as the socialisation. The second theme was Biopsychosocial benefits of dance, with two sub-themes: A challenging yet rewarding experience for all and self-perceived health benefits for older adults. These themes highlight feelings of pride, improved self-perceived health, and feeling energised. Conclusion: Intergenerational dance programmes were found to offer a safe community that fostered meaningful relationships, dissolved age-related stereotypes, and encouraged participants to be more active. More effort is needed to ensure the voice of the younger populations are adequately represented in these studies.