Programs for Older Adults
Movement is key for healthy aging, maintaining mobility and quality of life, and music is a wonderful medium for connecting and improving the mood. Dance Together Project offers special dance programs for seniors at retirement residencies and community centres in the Greater Toronto Area.
Move to Music - Community Programs
We offer dance programs for adults 50+ at community centres, special interest clubs and even public libraries! Classes include a mix of guided dance and improvised movement activities. Participants are equally welcome to dance with smaller or bigger movements, or to simply rest, enjoy the music. The instructor provides an example and general structure, encouraging each person to move in the ways that work for their body and mobility. Each session includes a rhythmic but gentle warm-up and stretch followed by movement activities that can all be done seated. The music includes Brazilian drumming, Cuban, Big band, Jazz, and Waltz!
Chair Dance - Retirement Residences
At retirement residences, each session is tailored to the specific needs of the residents. Most sessions are done in a circle – it is a chance to be social, exploring dance and creativity in a supportive setting. Various fitness aspects are woven in to the class: cardio, muscular strength, endurance and power, flexibility, balance, reaction speed, and multi-tasking. The length of the class is geared to what is appropriate for the members of the location. Sessions can be biweekly, weekly, monthly, or a one-time workshop. Each session includes a rhythmic but gentle warm-up and stretch followed by movement activities that can all be done seated. Chair Waltz and Chair Salsa are the most popular!
Interactive Performances
We love sharing dance with seniors! In these interactive performances, a group of dancers (2-6) present a dance performance followed by a dance session (seated or standing) that engages participants in the movement in a gentle and fun way. Where appropriate, the dancers engage with the audience by dancing together with them. On some occasions, we also work with live musicians, so that the participants can enjoy listening to and/or moving to live music!
