So you think you can dance? Development and validation of the Dance Self-Efficacy Scale for older adults (DanSES-60+) for research and practice

Background Dance and movement represent a recommended form of exercise for older adults that benefits health across diverse cultures and socioeconomic groups. Individual differences in dance self-efficacy may be key determinants of participation in dance for health programs, yet existing measures for assessing these psychological factors in older adults are limited. Scale development research addressing this gap could enhance understanding of factors influencing engagement and program success in dance-based health interventions. This study developed and validated the Dance Self-Efficacy Scale for older adults (DanSES-60+). Methods The existing 6-item dance self-efficacy measure was extended through literature review and focus group analysis. Expert review reduced 60 items to 32 items, which were administered via survey to 289 community-dwelling older adults ( M age = 72.1 years). The sample was stratified and split for exploratory ( n = 97) and confirmatory ( n = 192) factor analysis. Scale reliability and validity were assessed following established psychometric scale development procedures, including tests of internal consistency, test-retest reliability (2-week interval; n = 80), and associations with relevant constructs and demographic factors. Results Item analysis reduced the scale to 12 items with a theoretically meaningful two-factor structure: Barriers and scheduling self-efficacy (confidence in overcoming attendance and participation challenges) and dance task self-efficacy (confidence in performing dance activities). The DanSES-60+ demonstrated excellent internal consistency (α = 0.95) and good test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.84), with strong criterion and construct validity evidence. Dance self-efficacy scores were significantly positively associated with prior dance experience, current dance participation, female gender, mobility, general health, physical activity levels, and engagement in arts and creative groups. Age, falls history, education level, and cultural and/or linguistic diversity showed no relationship with scores. Discussion The DanSES-60+ addresses a critical measurement gap in dance and aging research, providing the first psychometrically robust tool for assessing dance self-efficacy in older adults. The scale enables participant screening and stratification, program evaluation, progress monitoring, and investigation of psychological mechanisms underlying dance program effectiveness. Established scale cutoffs and confidence indicators enhance practical utility for applications in dance for health research and practice.