The Effectiveness of Dance Interventions on the Quality of Life of Older Adults Residing in Long-Term Care Facilities: A Systematic Review

OBJECTIVE: The objective was to identify, critically appraise, and synthesize evidence on the effectiveness of dance interventions on quality of life (QoL) for adults aged 60+ living in long-term care (LTC). METHODS: A systematic review, initiated and co-led by patient partners, was conducted following a search across eight electronic databases. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental, and observational designs reporting QoL or health-related QoL outcomes. Reviewers independently completed title/abstract and full-text screening. Data extraction included study characteristics, intervention details, outcome measures, use of theory, proposed mechanisms of action, and intervention effectiveness. FINDINGS: Seven studies involving 429 participants were included. Six studies reported improvements in QoL or health-related QoL. Five studies used a dance intervention targeted to a specific country or cultural group. Two studies identified potential mechanisms of action. DISCUSSION: Dance interventions may improve QoL in older adults living in LTC. Research with more theory-driven, mixed methods, and/or co-created designs is needed.