Aged care residents move to the groove

An accessible, evidence-based dance program is helping aged care residents improve mobility, cognition and connection across multiple Queensland sites operated by Lutheran Services.

Creative Lifestyle Facilitators at Lutheran Services have completed training in DanceWise, a therapeutic movement initiative developed by Dance Health Alliance. The program uses gentle, seated dance movements designed specifically for older adults, with a focus on balance, mobility, cognitive engagement and emotional wellbeing.

Delivered in weekly 30-minute sessions, DanceWise classes create a structured yet relaxed environment where residents can participate at their own pace. The emphasis is not on performance, but on safe movement, rhythm and shared experience.

At Trinder Park, Lifestyle Facilitator Michael Russell says resident response has been immediate and overwhelmingly positive.

“Residents enjoy the classes just as much as the staff enjoy delivering them. It’s great to see a room full of smiles.”

Importantly, the program is designed to be inclusive. Residents living with dementia, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, arthritis or limited mobility are all able to participate meaningfully, removing many of the barriers that traditionally limit group activity programs.

“We’re hearing from families that their loved ones are showing noticeable improvements in their mood and energy levels when they start their day with a DanceWise class,” Mr Russell said.

For residents, the appeal lies in the simplicity and familiarity of the movement. Northridge Salem resident Fay Cronk describes the sessions as accessible and uplifting.

“The classes are so much fun. I always feel refreshed and energised afterwards.”

Beyond resident outcomes, DanceWise also places a strong emphasis on workforce capability. Creative Engagement Partner Claire Pearson says Lutheran Services facilitators receive ongoing support from Dance Health Alliance, including access to specialist practitioners, online resources and structured training materials to ensure consistency across all eleven sites.

“At Lutheran Services, we believe in empowering and upskilling our staff so they can give their very best to residents. While our facilitators are already highly skilled, structured programming provides an important foundation. It supports facilitators in delivering consistent, high-quality sessions, and it enhances resident enjoyment by creating a space where freedom, creativity and spontaneity can truly flourish.

“Not only does it promote physical activity, but the program also sparks imagination, confidence and the joy of mastering a routine, all to music they know and love”

As providers continue to grapple with workforce pressure, compliance expectations and rising acuity, programs like DanceWise demonstrate how evidence-based lifestyle initiatives can deliver tangible wellbeing outcomes without adding complexity to daily operations.

Movement, music and meaning. Sometimes the simplest interventions are the ones that land hardest.