In addition to working with medical providers to develop a comprehensive treatment plan, exercise is key to managing Parkinson’s disease. If you’re looking for a way to boost your physical activity, try dancing. It’s suitable for all skill levels and requires no equipment. Beyond these advantages, here are other ways this pursuit will improve your life. 

5 Benefits of Dancing for Individuals With Parkinson’s

1. Helps With Socialization 

Many individuals with Parkinson’s are over the age of 60. Many older individuals struggle with isolation, which can have negative health effects. Dance classes provide opportunities to meet and interact with others, helping people with the condition enjoy relationships and ties to their community.

2. Improves Balance & Gait

Parkinson’s impacts movement, specifically affecting balance and motor coordination. Exercise – including dance – is effective at minimizing these symptoms. A 12-week pilot study showed that dancing yielded improvements in balance and gait speed. 

3. Boosts Mood

Depression is a common symptom of Parkinson’s. As a fun and aerobic group activity, dancing may help to combat this symptom, as it’s been shown to improve mood and reduce fatigue. Beyond the endorphin-boosting quality of exercise, participants are often cheered by the lively music and creativity that dance entails. 

4. Sharpens the Mind

Dancing is a stimulating mental activity that connects the body to the mind. Each movement requires thought to match the rhythm, and remembering choreographed sequences takes mental acuity. It’s therefore no surprise that dance therapy has been linked to improvements in motor and cognitive function in people with the disease. 

5. Enhances Flexibility

People with Parkinson’s experience muscle stiffness throughout the body, which can lead to discomfort and limited mobility. Dancing is a head-to-toe workout that will help keep participants limber. It’s been shown to improve functional mobility, allowing individuals to complete daily tasks with greater ease and comfort.

If you or someone you love has Parkinson’s disease, Connecticut Advocates for Parkinson’s in Hartford County has resources available to optimize quality of life. Offering educational seminars, clinical trial participation, and support groups, this organization empowers patients and their family members to confront the challenges of this ailment head on. They also offer exercise classes to promote health and well-being. Browse through their upcoming events online or call (860) 266-6040 to contact a volunteer.