Exercise is one of the most beneficial activities you can do in order to stay healthy. It reduces your risk of heart disease, manages weight, improves cholesterol levels, and boosts energy levels. According to the American Heart Association, it is recommended that everyone receive thirty minutes of exercise five days a week in order to maintain these benefits. The importance of staying active can be even more crucial for seniors. It could serve to extend their life and improve their health both mentally and physically.
One of the hardest aspects of exercise is finding something that truly motivates you. Many seniors love the idea of dance classes to keep them busy during the day. Why do dance classes mean so much to this community? Here are just a few of the many benefits that a dance class can offer its students.
Social Time
No matter what type of dance it is, the scheduled time provides an opportunity for socialization among the members of a community. They can talk before class or make jokes as they attempt new postures. After class, it is easy to get together for a cup of coffee or an early dinner. Ballroom dancing and other classes that require partners are even better for socialization than individual ballet and jazz classes. Overall, it is a great time and place for seniors to make new friends with similar interests while they work on getting healthier.
Flexible Activities
Many seniors have a lot of physical limitations that prohibit them from making certain movements. The beauty of a dance class is that there is a great degree of flexibility to modify certain poses. For example, some teachers allow students to perform the routines from a seated position in a chair or while lying on the floor. Being able to modify a dance routine gives seniors the satisfaction of attending the class without feeling poorly about their own physical limitations.
Build Strength
Remaining sedentary for long periods of time can lead to significant muscle loss. It’s best to keep moving on a regular basis so that seniors can remain strong as they age. Even if they only participate in a light dance class, it is still preferable to doing nothing at all. You can keep your strength up for the foreseeable future with dance classes a few times each week.
Improve Mental Health
Are you struggling with the idea of aging? Coming to terms with your body’s new physical limitations often leads people into a depression. However, exercise has been proven to lift some of those negative moods and replace them with feel-good endorphins instead. Lift the gray haze of depression in favor of some fun Latin dance music on a Saturday afternoon!
Dance classes for seniors can be another way to help keep you at home longer with the help of recognized home care agencies like Partners for Home. Give us a call today to see how we can help you or your loved one to stay comfortable at home while still receiving the care you need!
