The Elderly
Our Seniors in Motion class is about connecting to our bodies, letting go of our stiffness and allowing our own fluid movements to emerge. This class helps seniors to be more relaxed, alert, and connected to themselves. Our oldest participant is 108, and she is a testament to our belief that if we get our bodies in motion, no matter our limitations, we can experience the positive benefits of dance. During every class we see participants’ energy levels rise, and many explain to us that their bodies are in less pain because of this weekly movement.
Dancing also positively improves mental function, playing a significant role in preventing dementia. The New England Journal of Medicine conducted a 21-year study of senior citizens (aged 75 and older) that monitored the rates of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, in the participants. "The researchers studied a range of cognitive and physical activities, and dance was the one activity that was good for the mind, significantly reducing dementia risk. Regular dancing reduced the risk of dementia by 76%, twice as much as reading.”
Current Site: VA Palo Alto Health Care System
Past Sites: Sausalito Village and Jewish Home of San Francisco
Dancing also positively improves mental function, playing a significant role in preventing dementia. The New England Journal of Medicine conducted a 21-year study of senior citizens (aged 75 and older) that monitored the rates of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, in the participants. "The researchers studied a range of cognitive and physical activities, and dance was the one activity that was good for the mind, significantly reducing dementia risk. Regular dancing reduced the risk of dementia by 76%, twice as much as reading.”
Current Site: VA Palo Alto Health Care System
Past Sites: Sausalito Village and Jewish Home of San Francisco
Give Dance to the Elderly