2 March 2026

Aged care residents move to the groove

An accessible dance program is helping residents move to the rhythm of better health at Lutheran Services St Paul’s Aged Care in Caboolture.

Lutheran Services Creative Lifestyle Facilitators have completed training in an evidence-based therapeutic movement initiative called DanceWise, developed by the Dance Health Alliance.

DanceWise classes are tailored to enhance mobility, balance, and cognitive function for older adults, through gentle, seated dance movements.

The 30-minute classes, held weekly, foster social connections and emotional wellbeing in a supportive environment.

St Paul’s Aged Care Lifestyle Facilitator Louise Wilcox said residents have responded enthusiastically, and the classes are very popular.

“Residents enjoy the classes just as much as the staff enjoy delivering them. It’s great to see a room full of smiles.”

“They are requesting songs and love the brain training aspect of remembering the dance moves. The sessions give everyone a boost.”

DanceWise is designed to be inclusive and anyone can get involved.

Participants with conditions such as dementia, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, arthritis, and limited mobility can all be actively involved in the classes.

“We’re hearing from families that their loved ones are showing noticeable improvements in their mood and energy levels when they start their day with a DanceWise class,” Ms Wilcox said.

Creative Engagement Partner Claire Pearson said staff receive ongoing support from Dance Health Alliance, including access to skilled dance practitioners, online resources, and detailed training materials to ensure high-quality programming across all eleven sites.

“At Lutheran Services, we believe in empowering and upskilling our staff so they can give their very best to residents. While our facilitators are already highly skilled, structured programming provides an important foundation. It supports facilitators in delivering consistent, high-quality sessions, and it enhances resident enjoyment by creating a space where freedom, creativity and spontaneity can truly flourish.

“Not only does it promote physical activity, but the program also sparks imagination, confidence and the joy of mastering a routine, all to music they know and love.”