Whether it is line dancing, Zumba, jazzercise or other forms of dance, the rhythm of music alone is enough to make you move. Not only is dancing an amazing form of exercise that can work on the whole body, it is also mentally and socially stimulating. The physical, mental and social aspects are crucial for the senior population as they age, since these are the areas they tend to decline in the most.
Physically, dance helps to improve balance, posture and flexibility, which are very important because many seniors are at risk for falling. Dancing helps to strengthen muscles in the core, arms, and legs which can help make falls less severe. The timing of dancing with the music and keeping on the beat also improves reaction time in seniors. This is the only physical activity that is also proven to help with cognition improvement. Memorizing steps in a sequence engages a senior’s speed and agility in their cognitive processing. There are other activities such as word puzzles that improve this, but dancing additionally encourages social interaction. It is not a secret that with age, it is easy for an individual to become isolated. Dancing, however, does not call for small talk or awkward eye contact, but promotes an environment for seniors to have fun, offer mutual support, and a space of belonging and community. This alone can help seniors to feel comfortable being more interactive.
There are different ways for seniors to get into dance classes. There are several different gyms that offer discounted or free memberships for seniors, such as Crunch. Check each city’s park and recreation services for senior activity programs. They may have dance classes specifically for seniors or a senior center that offers similar activities. Let’s Dance Activities is a program created by Hollis Taylor who was a caregiver and CNA for years before realizing that dance was a great way in helping to improve different conditions. The specific campaign that they are conducting is called Elders Dancing Across America. With this campaign they seek to bring their classes into senior living communities. They currently run their program in a few different states, but are looking to expand. For more information visit their website at: https://letsdanceactivities.org/danceacrossamerica/.
Dance is an affordable activity that can improve seniors’ quality of life. In a group class setting, it is the only activity that has physical, cognitive, and social benefits. Since dancing has all of these benefits, it would be advantageous for assisted living facilities, memory cares, and other senior living communities to include dance therapy in all of their recreational activity programs. For seniors living at home, they can benefit from looking into gyms and/or senior centers that offer group dance classes. If you or your elderly loved one is in need of further assistance, WellPath Partners offers many different resources for seniors and their family members.
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By: Leila Lagandaon
Placement Coordinator at WellPath Partners
B.S. in Health Science, California State University, Long Beach
