Types of Dance Classes for Elderly Adults
Elder Care Fresno CA – Types of Dance Classes for Elderly Adults
Senior dance classes are designed specifically for elderly adults of all abilities and interests. Dance classes are a wonderful form of exercise that is tailored to the needs of elders, providing both physical and mental health benefits. Not only is dancing a good workout, but it is a lot of fun. Elderly adults with a background in dancing as well as those who have never danced before find that elder dance classes are an excellent way to stay fit and enjoy themselves.
Dancing is an aerobic workout with lots of health benefits. It boosts cardiovascular health, increases circulation and builds bone and muscle mass. Seniors are more confident on their feet and are less likely to suffer from a slip and fall accident. The social aspect of dance classes is great for an elderly person’s mental health. Meeting new people, learning new dance moves and laughing a lot can help ward off depression, anxiety and loneliness. After all, attending a dance class can be like having a personal trainer, elder care assistant, physical therapist and social director all at once.
There are many different types of dance classes out there, so it can be overwhelming to decide which one to join. Many elders go to the first class with a family caregiver or elder care assistant to observe to see if they would like to join in next time. The classes usually have modifications for seniors of all physical abilities and many even make room for those in wheelchairs and walkers. It’s never too late to join a senior dance class.
Here are just a few of the types of dance classes that elderly adults can join:
Square Dancing
While it may look complicated, square dancing is ideal for elderly adults that want to enjoy themselves, meet lots of new friends and get an aerobic workout in. Not only does square dancing require plenty of agility and flexibility, it can help seniors improve balance. Square dancing is often used as dance therapy for people of all ages making it ideal for elder adults
Zumba
Zumba classes are sweeping the country and this fast-paced dance style can easily be modified for elders. Anyone that wants to have lots of loud fun and work up a sweat will love this spicy dance style. Zumba classes for seniors are low-impact and allow people of all abilities to participate. There are even Zumba classes for the swimming pool.
Ballet
One of the newer dance crazes to emerge is ballet for seniors, specifically barre exercises. It takes the best of ballet moves on the barre and converts them to fun dance/exercise classes. The low impact is especially appealing to seniors that want to increase flexibility, tone up and enjoy beautiful classical music with friends.
No matter what age or ability, elder dance classes can be just the thing for elderly adults. Not only is it fun to participate in these dance classes, but they can increase their self-esteem and make new friends along the way.
Source: https://healthyliving.azcentral.com/dance-exercise-seniors-5466.html