How to beat the blues – Senior edition – embracing dance across all ages for physical and mental wellness

“Dance is the joy of movement and the heart of life.” – Susan Joli

Other than physical benefits, dance has a profound impact on mental health and emotional well-being. It is a stress-reliever, a mood enhancer, and a confidence builder. Dancing helps ease the stress and anxiety of daily life, offering a therapeutic escape.

Dance workouts are always fun, particularly if we compare it to the mechanical, boring nature of plain old-school gym workouts. There is a big notion that dance workouts can be enjoyed only by the young. This is certainly wrong. Dance for older people is a great way for them to improve their flexibility, stamina and give their muscles a good workout.

According to studies dance can contribute significantly to the development of cognitive function in older adults. At JOOPOP, we always stress the importance of fitness and joy for elderly people. Dancing for seniors is also a great way for them to socialize apart from just working out.

If you’re an older adult looking to improve your health and wellbeing, consider adding dance to your golden years. Here are the countless benefits dance offers:

• It Improves physical fitness, the variety of motions builds endurance, strength, flexibility and balance along with strengthening the heart and lungs. It improves mobility, posture and range of motion. Older people who dance have better functional fitness than non-dancers.

• It improves mental acuity; dancing helps keep the mind sharp. Dancing also boosts neuroplasticity, and staying physically active overall through dance promotes better mental acuity as we grow old.

• Dancing boosts mood and fights depression. Dance/movement therapy is even used to successfully treat depression and anxiety in the elderly. The aerobic activity and social connections make dance an inspiring activity that supports mental health.

• It improves balance and stability, balance tends to decline with age, leading to increased risk of falls and injuries. Dance enhances balance by requiring controlled, coordinated movements while standing.

How to Start Dancing?

Consult a doctor – Discuss any health concerns and get medical clearance before beginning a new exercise program. Address any pain or mobility issues.

Consider your needs – Select a dance style that suits your current fitness level, mobility and health status.

Start slowly – Allow your body to adapt to avoid injury. Begin with shorter, gentler sessions and build up over time.

Take a class – Enrol in a beginner dance class at a well certified dance studio.

At JOOPOP we customize dance to any ability level. Safely trying new dance moves engages both mind and body, bringing joy and health benefits to older people dancing. Contact us to learn more about how JOOPOP can help you experience the best in senior fitness and happiness.

Mastering Challenges to Dance for Older People

Common challenges may arise when older people start dancing. But these hindrances can often be overcome with some creativity and flexibility.

• Pursue dance styles with simple moves at slower paces. Modify moves to your own range of motion. Build strength and stamina gradually.
• Allow yourself mistakes as part of learning. Remember everyone started as a beginner. Find certified trainers that help create a supportive environment.
• Falling is rare with safe practices. Build confidence in your ability to maintain balance and stability. Learn proper posture/form to stay centred.
• Make it social by dancing with a group. Plan lessons to stay consistent. Differ styles to prevent boredom.

Don’t let anything stop you from trying dance. Fine-tune to your needs and abilities. Prioritize having fun and you can’t go wrong. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy dance at every stage of life. The physical, mental and social benefits make dancing for seniors an amazingly rewarding activity for older adults. From motivating your mind and staying fit to bonding with others and expressing yourself creatively, dance allows you to flourish and find joy as you age.

Consult your doctor and connect with JOOPOP to get started safely.