Groove into ageing: Exploring the effects of rhythmic exercise on the well-being of older adults

Abstract

As the global population of older adults is increasing, it is increasingly important to address the well-being of this demographic. This paper presents a review of the literature on the efficacy of rhythmic exercise programmes that incorporate elements of physical movement and for enhancing the well-being of healthy older adults. Sixteen studies were identified for in-depth review. A systematic review of the literature following the PRISMA guidelines revealed promising outcomes across multiple domains. The results revealed that rhythmic exercise programmes demonstrate significant improvements in physical capabilities, cognitivefunctioning, psychological well-being, social connections, and physiological parameters. Gaps and limitations in the research to date, such as a lack of studies on the social benefits, limited variation in the types of exercise studied, skewed gender ratios, age-related differences, and the impact of music types and preferences, highlight avenues for future investigation. By addressing these gaps, future research can provide a more nuanced understanding of the effectiveness of rhythmic exercise programmes and inform the development of tailored interventions to meet the diverse needs of older adult populations.