WHAT is the recipe for a healthy life? Could dance hold the answer to physical, mental and psychological wellness from age two to age 102? Dance as an investment in lifelong wellbeing requires the rejection of outdated, ageist attitudes that rob individuals of the chance to experience the life affirming physical and mental health benefits that dance provides.
Defying ageist attitudes
In its “Global Report on Ageism” (2021), the United Nations stated that ageism is a global challenge. The dance world is leading the charge to these defy ageist attitudes for the benefit of all. Throughout Australia, the number of adult dance classes, for all age groups, is slowly expanding. Studio dance teachers are including adult classes in their timetables. In addition, schools dedicated solely to adult pupils are also growing in number. Particularly of note are the increasing options for older adults, which require different teacher specialisation, skills and knowledge to classes for younger adults. In addition, professional dance companies are joining the charge, providing inclusive, community dance classes, some specifically targeted to participants with mobility and cognitive challenges such
