Creative Dance-Supported CO-OP Approach in Older Adults With Mild Cognitive Impairment

This clinical trial aims to assess the effectiveness of a Cognitive Orientation to daily Occupational Performance (CO-OP) approach, enhanced with creative dance, in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The CO-OP method is a cognitive rehabilitation strategy that helps individuals improve occupational performance through goal-setting, problem-solving, and the use of metacognitive strategies. In this study, the CO-OP approach will be integrated with creative dance movements, a form of physical and artistic expression known to stimulate both cognitive and motor functions. The study will enroll 24 participants between the ages of 65 and 85, diagnosed with MCI according to DSM-5 criteria. Participants will be randomly assigned to two groups: CO-OP with Creative Dance Group: This group will receive the CO-OP intervention along with creative dance sessions. The creative dance component will consist of simple movements designed to improve motor coordination, memory, and attention, all while fostering social interaction and emotional expression. CO-OP Only Group: This group will undergo the CO-OP approach alone without any creative dance involvement. The intervention will last for 8 weeks, with three 60-minute sessions each week. During the sessions, participants in the CO-OP with creative dance group will alternate between cognitive tasks and dance-based activities. The sessions are designed to progressively challenge cognitive and motor skills while ensuring safety and comfort for older adults. The primary outcome measures include improvements in executive functions, attention, memory, and dual-task performance. Cognitive function will be assessed using standardized neuropsychological tests such as the Trail Making Test Part B (for executive function), Stroop Test (for attention), Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test (for memory), and dual-task assessments combining walking with cognitive tasks. Participants' quality of life will be measured using the SF-36 Health Survey, and depression and social isolation will be evaluated through the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) and UCLA Loneliness Scale, respectively. Secondary measures will focus on the potential emotional and social benefits of integrating creative dance into the CO-OP approach. These will include participant feedback on enjoyment and perceived improvements in social interaction and emotional well-being. The trial will also explore whether the addition of creative dance enhances motivation, engagement, and adherence to the intervention. Data will be collected at baseline, at the end of the 8-week intervention, and again at 3 and 6 months post-intervention to evaluate both short-term and long-term effects. Statistical analysis will be conducted using repeated measures ANOVA to assess changes over time between groups. This study is expected to provide insights into how integrating creative dance with the CO-OP approach can potentially offer a more holistic and effective intervention for older adults with MCI, addressing both cognitive and physical domains while also promoting social interaction and emotional health.