Dance for Health: the impact of creative dance sessions on older people in an acute hospital setting

"It doesn't feel like exercise": a realist process evaluation of factors that support long-term attendance at dance classes designed for healthy ageing

Introduction

Dance can positively impact older people's health and wellbeing across cultures and socioeconomic groups, countering age-related physical, sensorimotor and cognitive decline.

Background/objectives

The RIPE (Really Is Possible for Everyone) Dance program aims to improve older people's physical, mental, cognitive and social wellbeing by integrating engaging dance sequences with evidence-based fall prevention exercises. We sought to identify what mechanisms support observed long-term participation in this program, including by people living with challenging health conditions.

Methods

Following a realist evaluation approach, we co-developed and tested program theories iteratively with participant interviewees (n = 20), dance teachers (n = 2) and via observation of a dance class. Initial data were dual-coded and emergent findings were interrogated by the research team. Findings were organised to express Program activities + Context + Mechanism = Process outcomes configurations.

Results

We identified four program theories comprising 14 mechanisms which explained long-term attendance: 1. RIPE Dance benefits my body and mind (trust in the program, belief in health benefits), 2. RIPE Dance helps me feel good about myself (self-efficacy, pride in achievement, psychological safety, defying expectations, feeling valued), 3. RIPE Dance creates camaraderie (social connection, mutual support, rapport with the teacher), and 4. RIPE Dance is uplifting (raised spirits, fun, synchrony, musical reactivity).

Conclusion

The RIPE Dance program provides effective and enjoyable 'exercise in disguise' for older people with diverse mobility profiles.

Significance/implications

This research confirms that participation in dance can contribute significantly to healthy, happy ageing. Findings detail program activities that were most strongly associated with process outcomes, offering guidance for further program development, implementation and scaling up.

Exploring the perspectives of clinicians on solutions to tackling physical inactivity and sedentary behaviour in older hospital patients

OBJECTIVE

Despite growing research on sedentary behaviour and physical activity among hospitalised older people, there is little evidence of effective intervention strategies. This study sought input from clinical staff from various health professions on strategies to increase physical activity and reduce sedentariness for hospitalised older people.

METHODS

A 60-minute focus group discussion involving two physiotherapists, two occupational therapists, one doctor, one nurse and one social worker was conducted. Participants were recruited from a subacute geriatric ward and an acute orthopaedic ward with an orthogeriatric service at a general hospital. Data were thematically analysed.

RESULTS

Six strategies to reduce sedentary behaviour and increase physical activity were identified: clear and positive communication for patients and family/carers; educating patients and family/carers; involving family/carers and volunteers; setting physical activity goals; utilising group activities and activities of daily living (ADL); and making the hospital environment activity-friendly.

CONCLUSIONS

This research has revealed novel strategies to increase physical activity and reduce sedentary behaviour in hospital. The next step is to design interventions for testing.

Older people's perceptions of the impact of Dance for Health sessions in an acute hospital setting: a qualitative study

OBJECTIVES

To explore the perceptions of hospitalised older people and their relatives of the impact of taking part in group dance sessions in an acute hospital setting.

DESIGN

A qualitative descriptive approach was used.

SETTING

An acute hospital trust in the East of England.

PARTICIPANTS

Purposive sample of dance group participants.

INTERVENTION

Weekly music and movement sessions for frail older people on Department of Elderly Medicine Wards and the Stroke Rehabilitation Unit. Sessions take place in the ward and are facilitated by a dance artist supported by ward staff.

RESULTS

Twenty-one semistructured interviews were conducted with older people and/or their relatives. Thematic analysis of the data identified three overarching themes: (1) dance as a physical activity, (2) dance as an opportunity for social interaction and (3) the dance group as a source of emotional support. Sessions were valued as an enjoyable way to undertake physical activity and provided an opportunity for social interaction between patients. This is important as loneliness and boredom are a common occurrence during hospitalisation and are detrimental to overall health and well-being. Patients reported an emotional impact though taking part; happiness from engaging with the group and the release of pent up emotions through the triggering of memories by the music and conversations within the group.

CONCLUSION

Dance for Health provides a range of physical, social and emotional benefits for hospitalised older people. Further research is required to investigate the effectiveness of group dance sessions in increasing physical activity on an acute ward and the potential psychological benefits for hospitalised older people.

Dance for Health: The perceptions of healthcare professionals of the impact of music and movement sessions for older people in acute hospital settings

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

To explore staff perceptions of the impact of weekly music and movement sessions involving older patients and staff on the wards where 'Dance for Health' sessions take place.

BACKGROUND

Dance for Health is a programme of weekly group dance sessions, which take place on wards in an acute hospital setting. Recent research demonstrates the value of creative arts activities in clinical settings across the globe. However, there is little research exploring the impact of dance programmes for frail older people in acute hospital settings, or healthcare professionals' perceptions of the impact of these sessions on patients, staff and the ward environment.

METHOD

A qualitative descriptive approach was used. Twenty-one semi-structured interviews were conducted with staff who had supported patients participating in Dance for Health and the ward managers where the sessions took place. Data analysis was undertaken using a thematic analysis approach.

FINDINGS

The sessions challenged staff assumptions about older patients' musical preferences and the level of physical activity patients were able to undertake. Staff felt that the shared experience and interactions within the group enhanced staff-patient relationships. Staff taking part in the sessions reported feeling pleasure seeing their patients enjoying themselves and valued being a part of delivering the sessions.

CONCLUSION

The Dance for Health programme in an acute hospital setting has the potential to promote person-centred care through encouraging self-expression and individuality. It is a meaningful and enjoyable activity, which encourages physical activity and social interaction and enriches the aesthetic experience of the hospital environment.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

This is the first study reporting on the use of dance sessions for older people in an acute hospital setting. Dance for Health had a positive impact on staff attending the sessions and enhanced staff-patient relationships. Staff support is key for effective delivery.