We are on a new episode of the Community of Innovation podcast, where they are talking about boosting brain health through exercise – but not the traditional forms of exercise that might come to mind.
CABHI Spark-funded GERAS DANCE was created by experts in rehabilitation and geriatrics, combining science with social elements to promote enjoyable exercise among older persons.
The program offers benefits that span far beyond the exercise session. Participants develop networking groups, walking clubs, and social meetups, which further contribute to dementia prevention.
Dr. Alexandra Papaioannou, one of the program’s co-creators, explains how GERAS DANCE adopts a functional exercise approach – movements that enhance strength, mobility, and balance, all while engaging the brain – into the dance routines. While it may seem simple, functional exercise improves one’s ability to tackle daily tasks and age in the setting of one’s choice.
Mrs. Kiran Gupta then shares from a peer-instructor and participant’s perspective, providing first-person testimonials about this dance-based program. GERAS DANCE, specifically the Bollywood-themed program, makes Kiran and her participants feel alive. The cultural element woven into exercise – the music, the movements, the singing – sparks joy and motivation for everyone involved.
What people love most about GERAS DANCE is the accessibility of the program. Exercise does not have to be intimidating or overly intense to reap benefits. Dr. Papaioannou and Mrs. Gupta encourage everyone, regardless of their physical abilities, to join these exercise programs and start from whatever level of activity they currently find themselves.
