The Impact of 12-Week Jaques-Dalcroze Eurhythmics Programme on the Dynamic Agility in Single-Dual-Task Conditions in Older Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND: Progressive degenerative changes in the body of elderly people lead to a decrease in physical and mental fitness. Seniors have a problem with performing tasks that involve both physical and mental health at the same time. The risk of falls increases, the consequences of which in old age may be particularly dangerous. It was decided to investigate the impact of performing exercises involving both physical and mental spheres on the dynamic agility in older women. METHODS: 73 women (69.9 ± 3.2) were divided into two groups: intervention (IG, n = 34) and control (CG, n = 39). Individuals with IG participated in the Jaques-Dalcroze Eurhythmics exercise programme for 12 weeks, twice a week for 45 minutes each. Dynamic agility was determined by the Timed Up and Go test, which was conducted both in single-task (TUG_ST) and dual-task (TUG_DT) conditions, where the participant was simultaneously counting down from 60 every 3. The percentage difference between the results of both tests (dual-task cost, DTC) was also determined. Both groups had two measurement sessions: one week before the start of the exercise programme and one week after the end of exercise programme. RESULTS: After 12 weeks of exercise, IG participants obtained significantly better results in TUG_DT (p < 0.001) and DTC (p = 0.003) tests. During this time, CG participants had significantly worse results in TUG_DT (p < 0.001) and DTC (p < 0.001) tests. In the TUG_ST test, neither IG nor CG achieved a significant change in the result. In each test, a significant interaction between the group assignment and the measurement session was observed: TUG_ST: F = 11.523, η(2)(P) = 0.139, p = 0.001; TUG_DT: F = 60.227, η(2)(P) = 0.458, p < 0.001; DTC: F = 32.382, η(2)(P) = 0.313, p < 0.001. CONCLUSION: JDE exercises with a frequency of twice a week, for about 12 weeks, have a significant impact on the improvement of the dynamic agility control in women over 65 years of age.