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Foxtrot for a Fresher Focus – Researchers Explore the Power of Dance

A new project from the University of Southern Denmark is to investigate how dance can improve memory and enhance the quality of life for older adults with memory issues.

By Marianne Lie Becker, , 9/26/2024

As Denmark’s population continues to age, the number of people living with dementia and other forms of memory loss is increasing. It is estimated that more than 96,000 Danes over the age of 65 are currently affected by dementia—a condition that impacts individuals, their families, and the healthcare system.

The “Dance for Memory” project will explore how ballroom dancing can help older adults boost their memory and well-being through a mix of physical activity, mental stimulation, and social engagement.

-We know that dance combines both physical and mental exercise, which can be beneficial for older adults, explains Cecilie Thøgersen-Ntoumani, Professor at the Department of Sports Science and Biomechanics at the University of Southern Denmark.

-Now we want to look specifically at how dance can help people with memory problems and improve their day-to-day lives.

Cecilie Thøgersen-Ntoumani has recently been awarded a grant of 7 million DKK from the Tryg Foundation for the project, which will investigate how dance can support the mental health of older adults with self-reported memory issues.

Dance as a Tool for Better Mental Health

Ballroom dancing has shown promise as a way to strengthen both the body and the mind. It combines movement, music, and social interaction, making it an especially effective activity for older adults.

Professor Cecilie Thøgersen-Ntoumani, an expert in physical activity and health behaviour, and her research team will develop a dance programme tailored to people aged 65 and over with self-reported memory issues. The programme will be designed in close collaboration with the participants and dance instructors to ensure it meets the needs and preferences of the group.

-We hope our research will give us new insights into how we can use social and physical activities like dance to slow down memory decline, says Cecilie Thøgersen-Ntoumani.

-Dance has the potential to improve both physical health and build social connections, which are key to maintaining quality of life in older adults.

Meet the Researcher

Cecilie Thøgersen-Ntoumani is a professor of physical activity and health behaviour in the DRIVEN research unit at the Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics.

Contact

About the Project

“Dance for Memory” is part of the DRIVEN research unit at the Department of Sports Science and Biomechanics. In addition to Cecilie Thøgersen-Ntoumani, the project team includes:

Kristina Pfeffer, PhD student (who will be a postdoc on the project), DRIVEN, IOB; Kamilla Miskowiak, Department of Psychology, KU; Nikos Ntoumanis, DRIVEN, IOB; Pernille Tanggaard Andersen, Department of Public Health, SDU; Peter Krustrup, DRIVEN, IOB; Trine Kjær, Department of Public Health, SDU; and Liza Sopina, Department of Public Health, SDU.

Collaborators include ÆldreSagen and DGI.

The project will run for several years and involve a broad range of participants from Copenhagen, Odense, and Aarhus. The findings are expected to help shape future health programmes that can lower the risk of dementia and promote healthy ageing.

Editing was completed: 26.09.2024