Aspen Senior Day Center is dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of all seniors who attend each week. We offer a variety of fun and engaging activities for our clients every day which helps them flourish and thrive. One of our favorite activities is Becky’s SeniorSit and Dance.
For over 43 years, Becky has taught many styles of dance, aerobics, and exercise to children and adults. She has a degree in Physical Education and Dance from Brigham Young University and is certified with the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America. She is well qualified to help seniors safely enjoy dancing to all types of fun music.
Becky’s specialized program consists of doing fun movement and exercise based on dances to familiar songs and music — all while sitting in a chair. Many seniors find it difficult to manage full movement and stability while dancing on their feet. However, Becky’s program encourages them to dance along from the safety and stability of a chair. In fact, Becky says many seniors are surprised that they are able to still Cha-Cha, Tango, and Waltz while remaining in their chair!
How Becky’s SeniorSit and Dance benefit the seniors at Aspen Senior Day Center
Not only is this program beneficial to help all aging adults stay active and healthy, but it is also extremely important to those who are challenged with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. Exercise, mental stimulation, and socialization are some of the biggest benefits we see when seniors with memory loss take part in Becky’s program.
Exercise:
Encouraging physical activity is important to preserve seniors’ body functions. As Becky demonstrates movements, clients are able to easily follow along and dance to the beat. Not only is this activity fun, but it also helps strengthen muscles, increases blood flow, and improve joint mobility.
Mental stimulation:
Learning new skills is essential in encouraging brain fitness and sustaining cognitive ability. Familiar music can be extremely beneficial for mental stimulation — especially to those with memory loss. Additionally, seniors improve their coordination and focus when learning and repeating new moves. Many seniors also experience uplifted moods and an increase in motivation.
Social:
Too often seniors become more and more isolated as they age. Socializing is important for good brain health and it also keeps seniors from getting lonely and depressed. One of the biggest benefits we see at the Center is seniors enjoying the time they get to visit and interact with their peers. Becky’s SeniorSit and Dance brings everyone together while increasing their self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment.
We are so happy to have Becky’s SeniorSit and Dance as part of our regular engaging activities.
“I know this is an exercise program of the future! Music is motivating and what people love! I believe in this program and know it benefits many seniors. It truly helps them want to exercise in the safety and stability of a chair while getting the fitness benefits they need and desire.”
Becky Barraclough
To learn more about the activities offered at Aspen Senior Day Center, visit our site or call us at 801-607-2300.