Impact of Dance Therapy on Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson\'s disease (PD) affects ability of individuals to perform unconscious learned motor tasks, affects quality of life and has been associated with depression. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of dance therapy on motor performance, quality of life and depression in PD patients, by comparing certain symptoms between a group of subjects with PD who undergo ballroom dancing classes and a control group of subjects with PD. The investigators will assess mental status, severity of PD, quality of life and depression using rating scales. Subjects will be randomized to intervention and control group. Intervention group will participate in dance therapy for 12 weeks and will be examined at 12 and 20 weeks. Control group will be examined at same time intervals. Classes will follow a curriculum designed by Arthur Murray Dance Studio Staff. The investigators do not anticipate significant risk for participants.