Our Turn is an arts intervention project using the power of dance and movement to increase wellbeing and happiness of vulnerable adults living with dementia, Alzheimer's disease or any form of memory loss.
Using daytime activities to deliver vital emotional and physical support to people living with memory loss and dementia, the project will support the building of relationships in the home and the community, enabling greater social interaction and an improved quality of life.
These weekly dance sessions - led by specialist dance artists - will help:
- Support falls prevention
- Improve physical and mental health and wellbeing
- Reduce loneliness and isolation
- Provide carers with respite
The sessions include a falls prevention dance session, meet and greet and social time with refreshments. We have been working in partnership with Somerset Partnership and SPARK Somerset and have also received input and guidance from the Community Mental Health Team at Magnolia House to help shape the project.
The overall aim of the project is to provide creative daytime activities that deliver vital emotional and physical support to people living with memory loss and dementia. It will support the building of relationships in the home and the community, enabling greater social interaction and an improved quality of life.
“Here at Take Art we have years of experience in using dance to support individuals in managing physical and mental health issues. These projects have proved time and time again that arts intervention of this type can have miraculous effects on individuals and lead to less pressure on the health and care services.” Mark Helyar, Co-Director of Theatre at Take Art
Who can apply?
Our Turn is classed as an alternative day time service and will feature on Somerset Community Connect for participants to use their direct payments towards, should they wish. Anyone can attend the dance sessions providing they have received or are in the process of receiving a diagnosis of memory loss or dementia. Participants are also welcome to attend if they have self-diagnosed as living with memory loss or dementia.
The Our Turn sessions have stopped temporarily and we hope to resume them by summer 2025.
Please email ourturn@takeart.org or call 01460 249450 if you would to receive details of when and where the new sessions will be once they are up and running again.
How does dance and movement help people living with dementia and other forms of memory loss?
Dementia and Alzheimer's disease are progressive neurological disorders that primarily affect memory, thinking, and behaviour. The prevalence of these conditions is on the rise, leading to an increasing focus on therapeutic interventions that can improve the quality of life for those affected.
Among the various approaches, dance and movement therapies have emerged as particularly beneficial. These activities not only provide physical exercise but also stimulate cognitive function, enhance emotional well-being, and promote social interaction, making them invaluable tools for managing dementia and Alzheimer's.
Cognitive Stimulation
One of the primary benefits of dance and movement for individuals with dementia and Alzheimer's is the cognitive stimulation these activities provide. Dance involves the integration of multiple brain functions, including memory, coordination, and spatial awareness.
This cognitive engagement is crucial because it can help slow the progression of memory loss and cognitive decline. According to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, dancing was found to be one of the few physical activities that significantly reduce the risk of dementia, likely due to its ability to engage the brain in complex, coordinated movement patterns.
Emotional and Psychological Benefits
Dance and movement also offer profound emotional and psychological benefits for individuals with dementia and Alzheimer's. These activities can help reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and agitation, which are common in people with these conditions. The rhythmic and repetitive nature of dance can have a calming effect, while the music often associated with dance can trigger positive memories and emotions.
A study published in the Journal of Aging and Health found that dance therapy significantly improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression in older adults living with dementia.
Furthermore, dance provides an opportunity for self-expression, which can be particularly meaningful for individuals who may struggle with verbal communication. Through movement, they can express emotions and connect with others in a non-verbal way, fostering a sense of identity and dignity.
Physical Health Benefits
Physical activity is essential for maintaining overall health, and this is no different for individuals with dementia and Alzheimer's. Dance and movement help improve cardiovascular health, increase strength and flexibility, and enhance balance and coordination, which can reduce the risk of falls—a common and serious concern for older adults. Moreover, regular physical activity has been linked to improved sleep patterns and a reduction in wandering behaviours, which are often seen in those with dementia.
Social Interaction and Connection
Social isolation is a significant issue for individuals with dementia and Alzheimer's, leading to a decline in both mental and physical health. Dance and movement classes provide an opportunity for social interaction, which is critical for maintaining mental well-being. Participating in a group activity can foster a sense of community and belonging, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Moreover, these activities often involve caregivers and family members, which can strengthen relationships and improve the overall support system for the individual with dementia. The shared experience of dance can create joyful moments and positive interactions, which are especially valuable as the disease progresses.
Dance and movement therapies offer a holistic approach to managing dementia and Alzheimer's, addressing the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social aspects of these conditions. By incorporating these activities into the care plans for individuals with memory loss, caregivers can provide not only a therapeutic benefit but also a source of joy and connection.
As research continues to highlight the positive impact of dance on brain health, it becomes increasingly clear that these activities are a vital component of comprehensive care for those living with dementia and Alzheimer's.
Dance and movement are not just forms of exercise; they are powerful tools that can enhance the quality of life for individuals with dementia and Alzheimer's, offering hope and help in the face of these challenging conditions.
