Dancing with Dementia is a scheme that aims to bring some vitality and joy back into the lives of both people with dementia and those who care for people with dementia. Through music, movement and creative sensory play, participants are encouraged to engage both their bodies and their brains and to explore parts of their personalities that they may ordinarily struggle to express due to the nature of their condition.
- more effective communication and empathy skills
- higher levels of self-confidence and self-esteem |
We keep the sessions fun and upbeat and use a wide range of music which is sure to appeal to a range of tastes, including wartime favourites, old Hollywood classics, songs from the Jazz era and even a bit of Rock 'n' Roll! And the emphasis of the sessions is very much on enjoyment and free self-expression, so, although there will often be choreography to follow, there is no pressure to get all the steps right, to be perfectly in time with the music or even to join in with every activity if you don't want to or feel you are unable. We are inclusive, we ensure that sessions are accessible for all - regardless of age or ability - and embrace everybody's differences. The Benefits Apart from being brilliant fun, some of the benefits of joining a dance class - for both people with dementia and their carers - include: - physical health benefits such as increased mobility, strength, flexibility, balance and stamina - better spatial awareness - improved memory and concentration - reduced stress levels - the chance to develop stronger relationships and become part of a friendly community |
It goes without saying that all of this can contribute to a much better overall sense of wellbeing and happiness.
For more information on dance and its impact on dementia, click on one of the following links.
- "Dementia and the Benefits of Dance"
- BBC video "How dance classes are helping people with dementia"
- Dancemind - Alzheimer's project report
For more information on dance and its impact on dementia, click on one of the following links.
- "Dementia and the Benefits of Dance"
- BBC video "How dance classes are helping people with dementia"
- Dancemind - Alzheimer's project report
Click here for details about our summer term!
FAQs
What kind of dancing will we be doing?
This isn't a social dancing class, so partner dancing/ballroom and Latin won't be the predominant style. What I often like to describe the class as is creative movement, because it's as much about exploring the different ways our bodies can move - for example, by looking at shapes we can create with our bodies, or different qualities of movement we can use - as it is learning specific steps or routines. So some of the movement might be based on imagery, some of the movement will be inspired by the music, and some of it will be down to the participants to make up!
How will the class be structured?
In order for us to establish a consistent routine and keep up some level of continuity, each session will be structured in the same way. Although I can't say for sure what the structure will look like exactly (as this will be very much dependent upon specific participants' needs and preferences), each class will be made up of seated components, standing components, elements of partner/group work and creative tasks. Many of the activities will incorporate the use of props, such as wrist bells, pom-poms and hand scarves, too. We will always end the session with a cool down and an improvisation task I like to call pass the gift. And of course there'll be tea and biscuits too before you leave!
What should I wear to a Dance for Dementia class?
Just wear something that you feel comfortable in and which allows you to move. The same goes for footwear – lots of our exercises will focus on articulating through the feet, so if you do wish to wear shoes, you still want to be able to feel your toes and notice how the soles of your feet feel on the floor. If you are comfortable wearing just socks, please make sure they are not too slippery!
What do I need to bring?
Nothing in particular, but you might want to bring a bottle of water with you - especially if you need to take medication mid-way through the class.
Is this for me?
Definitely! You might feel a tad awkward and a bit silly at first - especially if dancing is something you've never done before - but I can guarantee it won't take long for you to get the dancing bug. A bit of silliness never hurt anyone anyway!
What kind of dancing will we be doing?
This isn't a social dancing class, so partner dancing/ballroom and Latin won't be the predominant style. What I often like to describe the class as is creative movement, because it's as much about exploring the different ways our bodies can move - for example, by looking at shapes we can create with our bodies, or different qualities of movement we can use - as it is learning specific steps or routines. So some of the movement might be based on imagery, some of the movement will be inspired by the music, and some of it will be down to the participants to make up!
How will the class be structured?
In order for us to establish a consistent routine and keep up some level of continuity, each session will be structured in the same way. Although I can't say for sure what the structure will look like exactly (as this will be very much dependent upon specific participants' needs and preferences), each class will be made up of seated components, standing components, elements of partner/group work and creative tasks. Many of the activities will incorporate the use of props, such as wrist bells, pom-poms and hand scarves, too. We will always end the session with a cool down and an improvisation task I like to call pass the gift. And of course there'll be tea and biscuits too before you leave!
What should I wear to a Dance for Dementia class?
Just wear something that you feel comfortable in and which allows you to move. The same goes for footwear – lots of our exercises will focus on articulating through the feet, so if you do wish to wear shoes, you still want to be able to feel your toes and notice how the soles of your feet feel on the floor. If you are comfortable wearing just socks, please make sure they are not too slippery!
What do I need to bring?
Nothing in particular, but you might want to bring a bottle of water with you - especially if you need to take medication mid-way through the class.
Is this for me?
Definitely! You might feel a tad awkward and a bit silly at first - especially if dancing is something you've never done before - but I can guarantee it won't take long for you to get the dancing bug. A bit of silliness never hurt anyone anyway!