Dance for Brain Health Update
New creative pathways in Rockhampton and continued community connection in Yeppoon
Dance for Brain Health continues to flourish across Central Queensland, bringing movement, creativity and connection to dancers, carers, volunteers and community members.
Responding to a request by the Arts Director at Benevolent Living, we have introduced Dance for Brain Health for people living with diverse cognitive and physical abilities. Our first session welcomed 35 enthusiastic dancers, including one participant aged 105, supported by caring staff. It was a valuable opportunity to explore how the Dance for PD approach can be adapted to maintain its signature creativity, care and enjoyment across a very diverse range of functionality.
At the Rockhampton Museum of Art, a new arts-in-health dementia friendly experience is bringing together Dance for Brain Health and Art As We Age: Conversations in the Galleries. This innovative program was developed in partnership with the Engagement and Learning Team at RMOA and involves a dance movement class led by Alex Darnley- Stuart (Allegra Studios) followed by a seated session in a gallery where calm, collaborative and meaningful conversations about selected, themed artworks are facilitated by Dr Jeanette Neden (Dance Collaborations).
In Yeppoon, Dance for Brain Health continues to be deeply valued by dancers, carers, volunteers, the Council and the wider community. The classes offer much more than physical activity: they provide routine, joy, companionship and a strong sense of belonging, inclusion and purpose for everyone involved. Anecdotally, participants and loved ones have shared just how important these sessions are for mobility, mental wellbeing and social connection.
Together, these programs show how dance and the arts can support wellbeing, healthy ageing, community confidence and connection across rural and regional Queensland.
Jeanette & Alex
Art As We Age RMOA Photo by Mandy Dollery
Art As We Age RMOA Photo by Mandy Dollery
Dance for Brain Health RMOA Photo by Mandy Dollery