Cumbria project aiding dementia through dancing

An innovative scheme in Cumbria is aiding dementia patients through the power of dance, an activity which is helping them to lead more active and independent lives.

An innovative scheme in Cumbria is aiding dementia patients through the power of dance, an activity which is helping them to lead more active and independent lives.

Called Dancing Recall is a brand new countrywide dance and movement project and is managed by Active Cumbria, in partnership with Cumbria District Council, NHS Cumbria and Dance Cumbria. The sessions have been designed by Daphne Cushnie, a community dance practitioner and chartered neurological physiotherapist.

The idea behind the project is that dance and music can help to enhance levels of concentration and responsiveness, while also keeping them active in a fun and enjoyable atmosphere. This encourages people to relax, express themselves and communicate with others. Dance and music can play a special role in helping to address issues which are associated with dementia, with music, for example, known to help conjure memories of the past and offer happy thoughts for sufferers.

It is already proving a huge hit, with 115 people already benefitting from the project thanks to sessions in Allerdale, Barrow, Carlisle and South Lakeland. Programmes in Penrith and Whitehaven are also set to begin in March, starting from the 7 March at the Rosehill Theatre in Whitehaven and 10 March at the Penrith Leisure Centre. All programmes are free of charge, meaning there’s all the more reason to come along and join in the fun.

If you would like to learn more about the project, click here to visit the official website.

This is a great example of initiatives which are designed to fulfil the lives of dementia sufferers and it is hoped that a similar scheme could be offered for those in dementia nursing care should it prove successful.

Image Credit: Eric__I_E (Flickr.com)