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

ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the effects of a psychomotor intervention mediated by creative dance on interoceptive awareness in community-dwelling older adults.MethodsThis 12-week non-randomized clinical trial involved 34 participants (74.6 ± 6.6 years), divided into two groups. The expe...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Hugo Rosado, Patrícia Motta, Ana Cruz-Ferreira, Catarina Pereira
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Frontiers Media S.A. 2025-08-01
Series:Frontiers in Psychology
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Online Access:https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1515393/full
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Summary:ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the effects of a psychomotor intervention mediated by creative dance on interoceptive awareness in community-dwelling older adults.MethodsThis 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.ResultsWithin-group comparison showed significant improvements in the EG for the scales of Noticing, Not-Worrying, Attention Regulation, Emotional Awareness, Self-Regulation, and Trusting, (p < 0.05). Post-intervention comparison between groups revealed significant differences in all aforementioned scales (p < 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.ConclusionOur 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.
ISSN:1664-1078