Four benefits that investments in community-based dance and arts programs provide for older adults

Dancing and Other Forms of Physical Activity Promote Healthy Aging

Investments in community-based recreational activities that promote exercise, physical activity, and engagement in the arts can lead to a better quality of life, improved well-being, and a pathway for healthy aging particularly for older adults. These individuals often cite the positive physical, psychological, and social effects they experience from participating in organized community events such as ballroom dancing and similar activities. This article describes four benefits enjoyed by seniors who have access to community funded programs that enable them to live an active, engaged, and healthy lifestyle.

Improved Physical and Mental Health

Studies have demonstrated that adults over the age of 65 who participate in leisure activities such as ballroom dancing and other pastimes involving exercise or the performing arts, enjoy improved physical and mental health. One such study was recently conducted by a team of faculty and researchers from the Mason School of Kinesiology. Using established assessment methods, the researchers measured the mental and physical scores of a group of older adults who participated in a series of dance, music, and arts activities for a period of ten weeks. The scores showed marked improvement over the course of the study.

Opportunities to Socialize

In a related study, Mason researchers examined the factors that motivated older adults to participate in a ballroom dancing program that was conducted as part of a controlled trial. Among the reasons mentioned by study participants was the opportunity to socialize with other people. They also described the positive feeling they experienced that comes from a sense of community, increased self-esteem, and social support.

The Satisfaction of Accomplishment

While older adults who take up organized dance and music activities may initially feel challenged and out of their comfort zone, over time many of these same individuals report a deeply satisfying sense of accomplishment that comes from mastering new skills. With this comes increased self-confidence, personal growth, and a willingness to learn new things – all of which help older adults remain productive and engaged.

Human Movement can be Medicine

There is a growing body of scientific evidence that supports the concept of human movement as medicine. Health care providers recognize the importance of dance and related physical activities in helping older adults as well as other individuals recover from debilitating injuries or diseases that impede full functioning. The coordination and muscle memory that certain types of dancing demand are also thought to help older adults maintain an optimal level of cognitive functioning. In fact, dance and movement have been used by health care professionals as therapies in managing patients who suffer from dementia.

To learn more about the benefits of dance and arts programs, read this article by School of Kinesiology faculty Jatin Ambegaonkar. Mason’s School of Kinesiology offers degree programs that focus on the scientific study of human movement and its application in settings such as athletics, dance studios, and clinical practices. Please visit our website to learn more.