Cognitive, Affective, and Motor Effects of Tangotherapy in Parkinson's Disease

Cognitive, Affective, and Motor Effects of Tangotherapy in Parkinson's Disease

Neuroscientific research has shown a close relationship between physical fitness and cognition, showing a positive effect of physical activity (e.g., aerobic activity) on the maintenance of psycho-cognitive well-being in the elderly. In particular, dancing seems to be very effective, as it involves both motor and multisensory aspects (touch, sight, hearing, proprioception), stimulating memory, motor learning and social interaction. In fact, dance increases sensory-motor skills and cognitive performance in the neurologically healthy elderly. Dance-based therapeutic approaches, in particular Argentine tango, have also been implemented in the context of neurodegenerative pathologies, including Parkinson's disease (PD) where motor (i.e., tremors, postural instability, motor slowdown) and cognitive difficulties (e.g., executive deficits) may coexist. Most of these studies have so far demonstrated a significant improvement in balance and a reduction in motor symptoms, while evidence regarding cognitive and emotional benefits brought about by dance remains limited. When investigated, cognitive benefits have often been evaluated at the level of global cognition (i.e., screening tests), without a detailed characterization of the effects of tango on cognitive and affective functioning (e.g., executive functions, social cognition, depressive symptoms), central aspects in Parkinson's disease.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Clinical diagnosis of mild-moderate Parkinson's Disease (modified Hoehn&Yahr Scale 1-3)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Having attended Argentine Tango classes in the past year;
• Having attended Physical Therapy rehabilitation in the past month;
• Other neurological diseases (e.g., stroke, traumatic brain injury, brain tumors)
• Dementia
• Any clinical condition not compatible with physical activity
• Deep Brain Stimulation of infusion pumps implants