'Still Dancing': North Queensland Program Fosters Movement, Creativity, and Connection for Women Over 55
A weekly dance program in north Queensland, 'Still Dancing,' hosted by Dancenorth, provides classes for women over 55. Emphasizing experiential movement, creativity, and social connection, the program has expanded significantly since its inception, now attracting approximately 30 participants, and has evolved to incorporate more physically engaging activities.
Program Overview: Experiential Movement in North Queensland
The 'Still Dancing' classes are held weekly, often on Thursday mornings, by a local dance company in north Queensland. The program is designed for women over 55, aiming to foster creativity and movement through experiential formats while also facilitating connection and community among participants.
Andi Gillham, Dancenorth's community class coordinator, reported that the program has grown from a few regular attendees to approximately 30 participants. Gillham described the classes as slower-paced, making them suitable for individuals revisiting dance, recovering from injuries, or seeking a general dance experience. She also noted that the program has become more physically engaging over time, moving beyond primarily seated activities.
Amber Haines, Dancenorth's co-artistic director, characterized the group as "open and explanatory," focusing on intuitive, experiential movement rather than predefined steps. Haines stated that dance offers an alternative to traditional exercise for older adults, which can sometimes be "linear and regimented," by engaging both the mind and imagination.
Participant Experiences: Joy and Continued Movement
Participants in the 'Still Dancing' program have reported positive impacts. Judy Taylor, 79, who has attended for four years, initially reported difficulty with movement but now expresses joy in the program and considers it important to her. Taylor mentioned moving to music in public places, stating a "need" for movement.
Peggy Robertson, 84, who has a background in ballet and has danced for most of her life, found that the classes offered a different approach to movement compared to traditional dance. She noted that the environment allows participants to follow their body's impulses without judgment.
Both Taylor and Robertson reported incorporating movement into their daily routines outside of class. Robertson affirmed an intention to "keep moving" even if limited to seated motions. Both participants expressed intentions to continue dancing indefinitely.
Community and Connection: Building Bonds Beyond the Studio
The program also emphasizes the development of community and connection among its attendees. Taylor highlighted the importance of shared enjoyment and friendship, describing the experience as a "gift of connection."
Gillham observed the formation of relationships among participants, noting that individuals have developed bonds and socialize outside of class. She further stated that dance is accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Health Benefits: Promoting Cognitive and Social Well-being
Dr. Maddison Mellow, a postdoctoral research fellow at Adelaide University, provided insights into the potential health benefits of physical activity and social engagement. Dr. Mellow cited studies indicating that physical movement can reduce the risk of dementia, which is projected to be Australia's leading cause of death by 2025. She explained that physical activity benefits cerebral blood flow, reduces neuroinflammation, and can maintain the volume of brain regions vital for memory, such as the hippocampus.
Dr. Mellow also noted that social contact and engagement, promoted by programs like 'Still Dancing,' combat social isolation, which is another risk factor for dementia.
She emphasized that enjoyment of an activity increases adherence, leading to sustained physical and cognitive benefits, even from small increases in daily exercise.