SPECIAL SYMPOSIUM: “get up Offa That Thing, and Dance ‘til You Feel Better!” the Why and How of Encouraging Dance for People with Parkinson Disease S9

For nearly two decades, people have been studying the effects of dance as a therapeutic tool for people with Parkinson disease (PD).  Starting with studies of tango, and extending to other dance forms, our research group and others have amassed a substantial body of evidence supporting the benefits of dance with respect to motor functions like balance and walking.  There is also evidence for benefits of dance for mental health and quality of life.  The purpose of this presentation is to discuss the importance of exercise and physical activity for people with PD and provide an overview of existing and emerging literature on dance as an effective form of exercise for this group.  The presentation will conclude with practical recommendations for encouraging and incorporating dance within the scope of multidisciplinary care for people with PD.