What is the mechanism of action of this treatment?

Common treatments for Alzheimer's Disease include pharmacological options like cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine, which aim to improve neurotransmitter function and slow cognitive decline. However, non-pharmacological treatments, such as physical activity and social interaction, are gaining attention for their potential benefits. These interventions, like the partnered dance-based intervention, may reduce inflammation, improve cognition, and enhance mood by promoting neuroplasticity, increasing blood flow to the brain, and providing emotional support. These mechanisms are crucial for AD patients as they can help maintain functional abilities, improve quality of life, and potentially slow disease progression.

What side effects are associated with this type of intervention?

Common treatments for Alzheimer's Disease that involve physical activity and social interaction, such as exercise programs and dance-based interventions, generally have minimal side effects. These interventions are associated with improved functional performance, mood, and cognition. However, potential side effects may include physical strain or injury if not properly supervised, and initial discomfort or resistance to participation. Overall, these non-pharmacologic treatments are considered safe and beneficial for patients with Alzheimer's Disease.

What prior FDA approvals exist?

FDA-approved treatments for Alzheimer's Disease primarily include cholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil, rivastigmine, and galantamine) and an NMDA receptor antagonist (memantine). These medications aim to improve cognitive function and manage symptoms but do not cure the disease. While there are no FDA-approved treatments specifically combining physical activity and social interaction, nonpharmacologic approaches like exercise and social engagement are recognized for their potential benefits in reducing inflammation, improving cognition, and enhancing mood in Alzheimer's patients.

What other types of research exist?

Promising alternatives to partnered dance-based interventions for Alzheimer's Disease patients include technology-based group exercise programs, music therapy, and cognitive-behavioral programs. These interventions can provide physical activity, social interaction, and cognitive stimulation, potentially reducing inflammation, improving cognition, and enhancing mood.

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Tango Dancing for Caregivers of Alzheimer's Patients

N/A

Waitlist Available

Led By Madeleine Hackney

Research Sponsored by Emory University

Eligibility Criteria Checklist

Specific guidelines that determine who can or cannot participate in a clinical trial

Must have

45-65 years of age

Be older than 18 years old

Timeline

Screening 3 weeks

Treatment Varies

Follow Up before and after the intervention / control at least 20 times during 12 weeks

Awards & highlights

Summary

This trial studies how dancing with a partner can help African American female caregivers of Alzheimer's patients by reducing stress and inflammation, improving brain function, and boosting mood. Dance therapy has been shown to improve or slow the worsening of quality of life in patients with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers.

Who is the study for?

This trial is for African American women aged 45-65 who are family caregivers of individuals with a 'probable AD' diagnosis from the Emory ADRC or Dr. Wharton's studies. It aims to help those at high risk for Alzheimer's disease.

What is being tested?

The study compares the effects of adapted Tango dance sessions against educational lectures on inflammation, cognition, and mood in participants to see which method better supports their well-being.

What are the potential side effects?

While not explicitly stated, potential side effects may include typical physical activity-related risks such as muscle soreness or strain from dancing. Emotional discomfort could arise during either intervention.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion Criteria

You may be eligible if you check “Yes” for the criteria below

Select...

I am between 45 and 65 years old.

Timeline

Screening ~ 3 weeks3 visits

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~ before and after the intervention / control at least 20 times during 12 weeks

Screening ~ 3 weeks

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~before and after the intervention / control at least 20 times during 12 weeks

This trial's timeline: 3 weeks for screening, Varies for treatment, and before and after the intervention / control at least 20 times during 12 weeks for reporting.

Treatment Details

Study Objectives

Study objectives can provide a clearer picture of what you can expect from a treatment.

Primary study objectives

Change in C-reactive protein

Change in Interleukin-10

Myxovirus Resistance Proteins

+8 more

Secondary study objectives

Change in 30-second chair stand

Change in Brooks spatial memory test

Change in Buschke Selective Reminding Test

+14 more

Trial Design

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: Adapted Tango DanceExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

20 improvisational, 90-minute adapted tango dance sessions over a 12-week period.

Group II: Educational ControlActive Control1 Intervention

Participants will take part in at least 20 educational lectures offered twice per week over 12 weeks.

0 / 1Eligibility criteria met

Research Highlights

Information in this section is not a recommendation. We encourage patients to speak with their healthcare team when evaluating any treatment decision.

Mechanism Of Action

Side Effect Profile

Prior Approvals

Other Research

Common treatments for Alzheimer's Disease include pharmacological options like cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine, which aim to improve neurotransmitter function and slow cognitive decline. However, non-pharmacological treatments, such as physical activity and social interaction, are gaining attention for their potential benefits. These interventions, like the partnered dance-based intervention, may reduce inflammation, improve cognition, and enhance mood by promoting neuroplasticity, increasing blood flow to the brain, and providing emotional support. These mechanisms are crucial for AD patients as they can help maintain functional abilities, improve quality of life, and potentially slow disease progression.

Evaluation of a home-based exercise program in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease: the Maximizing Independence in Dementia (MIND) study.