Weekly dance sessions at York St John University for anyone living with dementia, along with family, friends and carers, are able to continue thanks to funding awarded by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation.
The friendly Tuesday morning dance sessions, which have run successfully since October last year, are completely free of charge and open to everybody, whatever their level of ability, including those who may wish to remain seated throughout.
There is an enormous and growing body of research which demonstrates the impact that the creative and physical aspects of dance have on emotional, physiological and cognitive well-being.
Dance has been proven to help reduce the rate of falls in older people, to prevent depression and social isolation, and to facilitate communication and recall in those with dementia.
The university sessions, which are run by staff and supported by community dance students, provide participants with an opportunity to move as much or as little as they choose, and to socialise with others in a friendly environment.
Sessions are held every Tuesday morning between 10:30 and 11:30am in the beautiful dance studios on campus, and incorporate a mixture of music and dance genres. Tea and coffee are served afterwards to provide an opportunity for people to chat. Transport to and from the dance sessions may be available.
