Can dance can be a shortcut to better health?
Myf Warhurst hosts a unique experiment where a group of over 65’s attempt to slow the effects of aging through dance training culminating in a special performance.
Most of our volunteers have no dance experience, so leading them through this experiment is one of Australia’s most accomplished choreographers – Kelley Abbey (Dancing with the Stars, Happy Feet). Her task is to prepare them for a one-of-a-kind, accomplished performance to friends and family at the end of the 12 weeks.
After 12 weeks, the results are indisputable – they’re fitter, stronger and in many cases, better at cognitive tasks.
For 67-year-old Rod, it’s been life-changing. Neuropathy (nerve damage) in his legs, appears to have all but gone. And 76-year-old Shirley, who lives with Alzheimer’s disease, surprises by not only acing the physical tests but improving her ability to think quicker.
All that’s left to do now is to show friends and family what they’ve been working on for the past 12 weeks. Taking to the stage at the prestigious National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA), the nerves melt away and they put on a remarkable performance. There’s not a dry eye in the house. When their complex eight-minute routine comes to an end, they’re met with a rapturous standing ovation.
In this two-part Catalyst special, nine older Australians take part in a 12-week experiment exploring the power of dance for people over the age of 65.
Hosted by Myf Warhurst, the programme explore the emerging science that says dancing can improve fitness, balance, memory, mood and cognition. In short, it might slow the effects of aging.
Production credit: An ABC production. Producer Director: David Symonds, Associate Producer: Oliver Graham, Rebecca Hill, Executive Producer: Penny Palmer, A/ Head of Factual and Culture: Richard Huddleston.
