Dancing

Dancing is fun. It is also a way to encourage balance and physical activity. Grab your partner and put on some music. Pick music that is a favorite genre. Keep in mind safety. Start slow and see how the person is able to perform this activity. You do not have to pick each other up and be thrown up in the air. Swinging and swaying to music is enjoyable. If dancing is not an option, standing up you can also do dancing in a chair. Move your feet, arms, and hips. Give choices so the person with dementia can decide how they want to dance. Dancing is very stimulating. A very complex mental coordination is happening. The music is stimulating the parts of the brain to recall the sounds and memories of the song. The dancing movement activates the sensory and motor circuits of the brain. This activity can help mood and curb expressive behaviors. Helps to reduce stress and increases levels of serotonin. Consider dance a movement therapy. When engaging with dance think about safety but also have fun.