Craponne Sur Arzon

Dementia affects a significant portion of the elderly population, with behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia BPSD often leading to institutionalization. This study investigates the potential benefits of dance-based physical activity in reducing BPSD and improving cognitive and physical functions in institutionalized seniors with dementia. The project addresses the challenge of adherence to exercise programs in very elderly patients and explores dance as a combined physical, cognitive, and social activity that may help slow BPSD progression. Participants are randomly assigned to two groups. The experimental group receives 4 months of biweekly dance classes led by a professional dance teacher, followed by a return to usual activities. The control group starts with usual activities for 4 months, then receives dance sessions led by a nurse trained by the dance teacher. This approach compares the effects of dance therapy added to standard care versus standard care alone. During the study, participants undergo assessments of behavioral symptoms using the Neuropsychiatric Inventory, cognitive function, autonomy, activity frequency, depression, motor abilities, medication use, and caregiver contributions at multiple time points up to 16 months. Researchers track adherence to the program and evaluate outcomes at 4, 8, 12, and 16 months. Safety monitoring and long-term follow-up are integrated into the study design, with the total participation duration extending over more than a year.