Incorporation of Dance Practice into the Lifestyle of People with Disabilities and Its Impact on Quality of Life Over Time

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate how incorporating dance practice into the lifestyle can impact the Quality of Life (QOL) of People with Disabilities (PWD) over four years. Method: This is a prospective study with dance protocol classes specific for PWD, once a week, 60 min per class, over four years. In addition, the participants performed public presentations each year. Participants were assessed twice per year (at the beginning and at the end of each year of dance practice), totalizing 8 assessments, using the Medical Outcomes Study Survey Short Form 36 (SF- 36) questionnaire. Results: Forty-one PWD with different clinical conditions, both sexes, ranging in age from 3 to 39 years, participated in the study over four years (Y1 to Y4). With regard to QOL domains in the SF-36, significant changes were found when comparing the years (two-way ANOVA (F=19.87; p <0.0001)). Values increased in the following QOL domains: Year I: functional capacity, physical aspects, emotional aspects, vitality, pain and mental health. Year II: physical and emotional aspects, pain and mental health. Year III: functional capacity, physical and emotional aspects, vitality, general health, pain and mental health. In Year IV the values increased in all domains. Interpretation: Over the course of four years, dance practice contributed to the QOL of participants; this suggests that it is an activity that promotes inclusion for PWD in the sociocultural arena.