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.