Exploring the Impact of an 8-Week Structured Dance Program on Quality of Life and Depressive Symptoms in Early-to-Mid-Stage Parkinson’s Disease: Gender Differences and Therapeutic Potential
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58445/rars.2173Abstract
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor and non-motor symptoms that significantly reduce quality of life (QoL). Non-motor symptoms, including depressive symptoms, are often overlooked but contribute heavily to disease burden. This study evaluates the effects of an 8-week structured Dance for Parkinson’s Disease® (DfPD®) program on QoL and depressive symptoms in early-to-mid-stage PD patients, with a focus on gender differences. Data from 16 participants, assessed before and after the intervention using the Parkinson’s Disease Questionnaire-8 (PDQ-8) and Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), revealed significant improvements in QoL and depressive symptoms. Paired t-tests showed reductions in PDQ-8 and BDI-II scores, indicating enhanced well-being and reduced depression. However, linear mixed-effects models revealed that men exhibited consistently higher depressive symptoms than women, both before and after the intervention, with no significant gender differences in the rate of change over time. While both genders benefited from the program, men showed a greater improvement in QoL. These findings underscore the therapeutic potential of dance interventions in PD, particularly for enhancing social engagement and emotional well-being, and highlight the importance of tailoring interventions to gender-specific needs. Further research is warranted to explore long-term outcomes and refine gender-based therapeutic strategies.
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