The Queensland Ballet and Queensland University of Technology has found older people who do ballet on a regular basis not only have more energy and better flexibility and posture – they’re also happier too.
Participants in the three-month program run by the ballet company, which included 10 Ballet for Seniors classes, also enjoyed a greater sense of connection and friendship.
“I think when you go on a regular basis you get to see the same people each time, and people start to get to know your name, they get to know your face, and we go to coffee afterwards,” participant Julie said.
Dancing has already been shown to have a positive effect on ageing, but until now, there’s been little research on the social benefits.
More proof it’s worth finding an outlet – whether ballet or another activity – that gets you out and about.
Queensland Ballet public dance class program runs Ballet for Seniors classes weekly including a specialist Dance for Parkinson’s class specifically designed for people living with Parkinson’s Disease.
Find out more here.
