The researchers believe that the effect of the ageing process on locomotor related activities in Scottish country dancers can potentially be delayed due to the routines which combine forwards and sideways movements with side- skipping, turning and hopping elements- all of which combat the deterioration of the nervous system.
The study states: "These findings advocate the participation in Scottish country dance in combating the inevitable degenerative effects of ageing in the performance of functional ability tasks when compared with age-matched individuals participating in other forms of physical activity.
Dr Susan Dewhurst, lead rusearcher and senior Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Physiology, said: "With the ageing population being a major concern due to the impact on public services and particularly the National Health Service(NHS), promoting active ageing that will result in independent and healthy living is crucial, both for the NHS and the individuals concerned.
"The present study shows that Scottish country dancing can be an appealing form of exercise to achieve that, as it not only brings the social and mental wellbeing of group dancing but it also helps to maintain functional ability."
Age-related physical degeneration severely affects people's quality of life and or puts a large amount of strain on the NHS. With the number of people aged 65 by over projected to rise to more than 16 million(nearly 50%) in the next 20 years, AARG is committed to finding ways which can lessen the effects of ageing, identifying the most effective interventions age-related degeneration and of scientific promoting them into future health schemes, as well as developing research which can be translated into practical applications.