The Greek Welfare Centre of the Archdiocese of Australia will host a series of talks in July on topics such as, ‘The Contribution of the First Generation to the Second and Third Generations’, ‘The Importance of Exercise and Dance in Older Age’, and ‘Elder Abuse’.

Dance and ageing

As we age, it is essential to promote both physical and mental well-being and an activity popular among Greek elders is dancing.

Beyond the innate joy of dancing, the activity offers benefits for the elderly. It improves cardiovascular health, enhances cognitive abilities, and dancing can significantly boost the happiness of seniors in our community.

Traditional dances and dementia prevention-Thessaloniki University study proves significant benefits

Dancing is one of the most enjoyable ways to keep the brain active in old age. While many studies have highlighted its benefits, the relationship between dancing and specific brain functions had not been thoroughly investigated until now.

A team of scientists from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki conducted a study to explore these benefits. According to the researchers, dance programs combine cognitive and physical activity in an enjoyable way.

The six-month program included 44 participants who were evaluated for their physical condition and underwent electroencephalogram (EEG) tests at rest (with eyes closed).

These tests were conducted from one to 14 days before and after the training, utilising scientific knowledge about the brain.

The high-quality data was divided into multiple, continuous 30-second phases.

The results showed that learning to dance improved the performance of specific brain regions, enhancing information flow and functional reorganisation.

The findings suggest that learning and engaging in dance can be a potential non-pharmacological intervention for promoting the mental and physical well-being of the elderly.

The results were also compared with a combination of electronic cognitive and physical training, which has already been proven to induce neuroplasticity (LLM Care).

A previous study showed a seven per cent reduction in the risk of developing dementia in elderly individuals who participated in dancing, played musical instruments, read, and played board games once a week.

Other research has explored the potential benefits of dance interventions for the elderly.

– Dance is a less intimidating exercise for many seniors, as they have had many positive and enjoyable experiences in their youth. It is also a crucial factor for health and well-being.

– Dance provides the opportunity to connect with daily life, encouraging fun and enjoyment, social interaction, team spirit, health, physical activity, and mobility.

– Dance is considered a form of physical exercise that can be adopted as part of various interventions for the elderly. It improves energy, boosts mood, and reduces stress in ways similar to aerobic exercise.

-Traditional dances, as a physical activity, help prevent cognitive decline and improve coordination and control of body movements.

The schedule of the Greek Welfare Centre of the Archdiocese of Australia July talks is as follows:

Monday, July 1

11am Parish of St. Charalambos, Templestowe

Topic: “The Importance of Exercise and Dance in Old Age”

Tuesday, July 2

11am Parish of St. Athanasios, Springvale

Topic: “The Importance of Exercise and Dance in Old Age”

Thursday, July 4

11am. Parish of St. Nicholas, Yarraville

Topic: “Elder Abuse”

Monday, July 8

10am Parish of St. Basil, Brunswick

Topic: “The Importance of Exercise and Dance in Old Age”

Tuesday, July 9

11am Parish of the Presentation of Our Lady, N. Balwyn

Topic: “Elder Abuse”

Thursday, July 11

11am Parish of the Holy Trinity, Richmond

Topic: “The Importance of Exercise and Dance in Old Age”

Monday, July 15

11am Parish of St. Paraskevi, St Albans

Topic: “Elder Abuse”

Tuesday, July 16

11am Parish Community of St. Spyridon, Clayton

Topic: “Elder Abuse”

Thursday, July 18

11am Parish of the Holy Monastery “Axion Estin”, Northcote

Topic: “The Contribution of the First Generation to the Second and Third Generations”

Monday, July 22

11am Parish of St. Anthony, Sunshine

Topic: “The Importance of Exercise and Dance in Old Age”

Tuesday, July 23

11am Parish of the Three Hierarchs, Clayton

Topic: “The Importance of Exercise and Dance in Old Age”

Thursday, July 25

9.30am Parish of the Presentation of Our Lord, Coburg

Topic: “The Contribution of the First Generation to the Second and Third Generations”

For more information, contact the Coordinator of Elderly Associations, Yannis Pilalidis at the Greek Welfare Centre, 94866588.