An investigation into the feasibility and benefit of Irish set dancing for people with Parkinson’s disease

Irish set dancing may be beneficial for people with Parkinson’s disease and encourage habitual exercise participation through the integration of dynamic balance activities, socialisation and musical enrichment. Currently, only one published study, which was carried out in a sample of Venetians with Parkinson’s disease, has investigated the feasibility of set dancing. Set dancing has a rich cultural heritage in Ireland and is a popular social and cultural activity in Ireland. Thus, research exploring the role of set dancing as an exercise activity in an Irish population is warranted. The aim of the project presented in this thesis was to investigate the feasibility and benefit of Irish set dancing for people with Parkinson’s disease in Ireland. The findings of a systematic review and single-group feasibility study informed the methods of a multi-centered pilot randomised controlled trial (RCT). Ninety participants were randomised (n=45 per group) into a set dancing group and usual care control group. No adverse effects were reported. Attrition during the study was >40% in both groups and adherence to the intervention was 93.5%. Postintervention, the dance group demonstrated greater improvements in quality of life compared to the control group. Motor function deteriorated in the control group. An exit questionnaire showed participants enjoyed the classes and would like to continue participation. An educational resource to inform set dancing teachers about Parkinson’s disease was developed using information gathered from the research studies described in this thesis and the broader literature. The results of this project provide new insights into the feasibility, safety and potential benefits of set dancing for those with Parkinson’s disease. These findings along with the educational resource may guide future research, encourage collaborations between health and dance disciplines and facilitate successful implementation of community set dancing programmes for this population.