Cognitive Groove (Brought to You by GERAS DANCE)

Launched by MCMASTER UNIVERSITY · Mar 10, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The Cognitive Groove trial is studying a special program called Cognitive Groove, which uses dance and movement to help older adults who are frail or at risk of becoming frail. The researchers want to find out if this program is better than regular care in improving strength, balance, mood, and overall quality of life for older adults living in the community. Participants will join Cognitive Groove classes twice a week for three months, while others will continue with their usual care without any additional support.

To join the trial, participants need to be at least 65 years old, able to walk independently (with or without a walking aid), and assessed as being at risk for mobility issues. They must also be able to follow simple instructions and have clearance from their doctor to participate. The trial is not yet recruiting, but it aims to see if this fun, community-based program can make a real difference in the lives of older adults dealing with frailty.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Community-dwelling aged ≥65 years
• • At high risk for mobility disability/functional limitations as assessed by the FRAIL Scale ≥2
• • Able to ambulate independently (25 m) with or without an assistive device
• • Able to follow two-step instructions
• • Medical clearance from referring clinician, or for self-referrals, medical clearance from family physician to safely participate in exercise
• • Can arrange transportation to the YMCA up to 2 times per week
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Unable to speak or understand English
• • Current regular participation in a structured exercise program or receiving active physical therapy services
• • Severe cardiac or pulmonary disease
• • Unstable angina or heart failure
• • Severe osteoarthritis (e.g., awaiting joint replacement)
• • Parkinson's disease or other progressive neurological disorder
• • Receiving palliative care
• • Travel/commitments requiring missing more than two weeks