Sharing Dance Older Adults

Developed by Canada’s National Ballet School (NBS) and Baycrest, industry leaders in dance training and geriatric care, Sharing Dance Older Adults offers safe, seated and standing dance classes for you, wherever you are—at home, in community spaces, retirement homes, long-term care, and more. Classes are taught by professional dance teachers from Canada’s National Ballet School, are accompanied by a live musician, and include a variety of movement options. No dance experience is required!

Did you know? The artistry and physicality of dance supports overall physical, emotional and social wellbeing among older adults. Regular dancing also helps develop skills and confidence, while enriching your day-to-day life through creative expression.

Older adults of every ability and aspiration have a transformative experience waiting for them in dance. It is a powerful, yet underutilized tool for health and well-being across all spectrums of society. Innovative dance activities for older adults are a burgeoning field of research. Multiple studies suggest that dance offers a unique combination of physical, psychological and social benefits for older adults, including those living with dementia and other cognitive and physical challenges.

Benefits for Older Adult Dancers

These accessible, professionally-led dance programs support physical, psychological and overall health. Physical benefits of dancing in older adulthood may include:

•Improved aerobic power

•Increased muscle endurance

•Greater strength and flexibility

•Improved balance and gait

•Reduced risk of falls

Dance may also be emotionally and socially beneficial for older adults by helping to reduce isolation, encouraging a sense of community, and providing a space for creativity and artistic expression.

Benefits for Community Programmers, Service Providers, Caregivers and Health Professionals

•A high-quality, professionally-led dance program made accessible to older adults in your community

•Facilitate meaningful social connections and engagement with older adults in your community

•Support overall physical, psychological and social wellbeing through dance engagement

•Develop and build skills and confidence through dance movement for older adults with varying levels of physical and cognitive abilities

•Evidence-informed program delivery by NBS dance experts, ensuring consistency and quality

•No dance experience required

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