Enhancing interoceptive awareness in community-dwelling older adults: effects of a psychomotor intervention mediated by creative dance.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the effects of a psychomotor intervention mediated by creative dance on interoceptive awareness in community-dwelling older adults.

METHODS

This 12-week non-randomized clinical trial involved 34 participants (74.6 ± 6.6 years), divided into two groups. The experimental group (EG) engaged in a psychomotor intervention (3×/week; 60 min/session), while the control group (CG) continued their usual daily activities. Interoceptive awareness was assessed using the Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness at baseline and post-intervention.

RESULTS

Within-group comparison showed significant improvements in the EG for the scales of Noticing, Not-Worrying, Attention Regulation, Emotional Awareness, Self-Regulation, and Trusting, ( < 0.05). Post-intervention comparison between groups revealed significant differences in all aforementioned scales ( < 0.05), except for Not-Worrying. Overall, the CG maintained or decreased their results. The improvements observed in the EG were clinically relevant, with effect sizes ranging from medium to large.

CONCLUSION

Our study results highlight the potential of a psychomotor intervention mediated by creative dance for enhancing interoceptive awareness in community-dwelling older adults, contributing to better emotional regulation and overall well-being. This effective intervention can be a valuable strategy for promoting healthy aging.