7 Dances for Seniors


Dancing has made a big comeback with the senior crowd, whether its folk dancing  with friends, or the boogaloo. According to seniors.com.au, dancing offers exhilaration and fitness to seniors with a minimum of effort.

There are exercise and social benefits of dance for seniors. It brings people together, even if it's watching others. Comfortable clothing and well fitting shoes are the starting point.

seniors.com.au recommended 7 dances for seniors.

1. Line Dancing

It's popular, easy to learn, and a partner is not necessary. The routines are excellent for memory training.

2. Tap dancing

It takes more energy than line dancing, but the fun comes from making lots of good, healthy noise.

3. Belly dancing

Belly dancing is an ancient dance form, popular in the Middle East, and now the West. It is a non-impact, weight-bearing exercise, suitable for all ages. It is a good exercise for the prevention of osteoporosis in older people. Belly dancing improves torso and spinal column flexibility.

4. Folk dancing

It's has always been popular, and includes many different types such as:

  • Square
  • Colonial
  • Polka
  • Morris

Folk Dancing can help seniors re-discover their cultural origins.

5. Rock and Roll

It remains a mainstay among Boomers, popular at classes and parties, and at competitions held in many locations.

6. Ballroom dancing

It remains an all-time favorite with seniors around the world. There are many styles:

  • Slow Tango
  • Fox Trot
  • Waltzes

7. Latin dancing

It's energetic and good for the cardiovascular. Current Latin dancing includes:

  • Salsa
  • Samba
  • Rumba
  • Cha Cha
  • Fast Tango

Residents in Assisted Living and Continuing Care residences participate in dancing classes.

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