REACT!: The Rhythm Experience and Africana Culture Trial

STUDY BASICS

Are you African American and 60-80 years of age? Are you interested in attending classes on African dance or Africana culture? You may be able to take part in a research study to find out if participating in these classes improves how you think, feel or function in your day-to-day life. Involves 1 hour classes 3 days a week for 6 months. Compensation provided.

STUDY PURPOSE

As a person ages, changes in the brain can lead to problems with thinking and memory. While these types of mild changes are common in all older adults, African Americans are at an increased risk of developing more serious problems like Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia. Some research has shown that physical activity may help to maintain and improve brain health in older adults. The purpose of this study is to help researchers find out if participating in African dance or Africana culture classes can help to improve brain health and quality of life.

COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOU?

• African Americans ages 60-80
• Speak English as primary language
• Able to travel on your own (by driving or taking public transportation) to the Wilkins Community Center (in Regent Square)
• Available for classes between 9:30am-noon on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays (classes will only last one hour)
• No history of balance problems or falls

WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT

This study involves an initial three hour visit that includes a fitness test, memory tasks, and surveys at Sennott Square in Oakland. Qualified participants will be randomly assigned (like the flip of a coin) to attend either an African dance or Africana culture and education class. All classes last about 1 hour and will take place 3 times per week for 6 months at Wilkins Community Center in the Regent Square neighborhood of Pittsburgh. After the classes are over, a repeat fitness test will be performed in Oakland.