A Dance To Remember
“A Dance To Remember” is a specialized Movement Class for Independent, Assisted Living & Memory Care Facilities. Studies have shown a material beneficial effect of dancing for those afflicted with Alzheimer’s. Together with other studies which measure the effect of various movement based exercises on cognitive functions, Ballroom and Freestyle dancing had a measurable direct impact on improved cognition in neurologically impaired patients A 21-year study of senior citizens 75 and older, was led by the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City, funded by the National Institute on Aging, and published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Their method for objectively measuring mental acuity in aging was to monitor rates of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. The study was conducted specifically to determine if any physical or cognitive recreational activities influenced mental acuity. The only physical activity with a profound impact on dementia was frequent dancing. Below Helen dancing with the lovely 93 year old Margaret Gatewood and Jean Montalto at Golden Living Center in Petaluma California.
“A Dance to Remember” Program, (Dancing with the Seniors)
Part I Begins with a 15 minute warm- up exercise time. Simple dance and stretching exercises are demonstrated by the instructor to Latin and Ballroom music in the form of easy-to-follow upper-body movements. All residents are welcome to join in, whether getting up and dancing with the instructor, sitting in their wheelchairs, or standing with a walker.
Part 11 Warm-ups are followed by a brief “Dance History” presentation by Helen Andrade, with the focus on a different Ballroom dance every week. Example: Foxtrot, Waltz, Tango, Cha Cha, etc. At the end of the class, participants will have the opportunity to answer questions on what they recall or contribute stories about their dance experiences.
Part 111 After a dance performance by Helen Andrade of the “dance de jour” a dance party for all is included. No one is left out! Helen then dances with the residents, (both standing and sitting), followed by a “Trivia Quiz” based on the dance history lesson. Prizes will be distributed after the final trivia quiz. Lots of prompts are included! (Everybody is a winner!)
1 class per month: $140
2-3 classes per month: $130
4 classes per month: $120
Check out how A Dance to Remember helps memory care residents stay active
“Helen has come to Prairie Creek Assisted Living and Memory Care
many times. She is wonderful with our residents. Helen is upbeat,
explains information, answers questions and demonstrates the steps for
each dance. The first time she came she encouraged our residents to
dance with her, standing or seated. To my surprise Helen got a few to
stand and actually dance. I know she made my residents day. Helen also
had information about different types of dance and their origin, which
residents are always interested in learning new things. Helen inspired
the residents to reminisce about the old Dance Halls here in Sioux Falls
SD. We have now hired Helen to come once a month and integrated her
into our exercise program. Dancing is not only fun but it is great for the
mind and a good way to exercise. I would recommend Helen for any
Senior Living facility.”
– Barbara Jost
Activity Coordinator of Prairie Creek Assisted Living