Did you know dancing is beneficial for brain health and physical function including balance?

GERAS Dance is a fun, mind and body program that emphasizes mobility, balance and strength for older adults (ages 60+) through a series of ballroom type movements. This 14-week program provides a mixture of both seated an standing movements that help improve cognitive and mobility impairments. No background in dance is necessary to participate.

This program is in partnership with the GERAS Centre for Aging Research at Hamilton Health Sciences. It will be offered in various locations across Hamilton, Halton, Brantford and Niagara region. This program is FREE for members or $90.00 for non-members. Registration is required to participate in this program.

FAQ:

Is GERAS Dance right for me?
The program is designed for older adults (aged 60+) experiencing early cognitive or mobility impairments. Individuals may have a mobility aid but should be able to walk at least 10m and be able to get out of a chair unassisted.

How long is the program sessions?
The program will run for 14 weeks. The first week will be an introductory and assessment period for participants, followed by 12 weeks of GERAS dance, with the final week being a final assessment.

When and where is the program running? The program will launch January 29th at the following locations:

Peter Gilgan Family YMCA – Oakville: (905) 845 – 5597

In early 2019 you will be able to find GERAS dance at:

Hamilton/Burlington/Brantford:
Flamborough Family YMCA: (905) 690 – 3555
Hamilton Downtown Family YMCA: (905) 529 – 7102
Laurier Brantford YMCA: (519) 512 – 4891
Les Chater Family YMCA – Hamilton: (905) 667 – 1515
Ron Edwards Family YMCA – Burlington: (905) 632 – 5000

Niagara Region:
E.J. Freeland YMCA – Fort Erie: (905) 871 – 9622
Niagara Centre YMCA – Welland: (905) 735 – 9622
Niagara Falls YMCA: (905) 358 – 9622
Niagara West YMCA – Grimsby: (905) 309 – 9622
Port Colborne YMCA: (905) 835 – 9622
Walker Family YMCA – St. Catharines: (905) 934 – 9622

How do I register? 
Individuals can register at the membership desk and their preferred location. To receive full benefits of the program it is recommended to enrol prior to the start date. If space allows, the latest date to register will be the third week.

What happens during a class?
The class starts with a warm up and social element, followed by 30 minutes of dance (both seated and standing), and ends with a cool down session.

What are the health benefits to GERAS? 
Studies show that GERAS allows you to exercise both the mind and the body, therefore increasing cognitive ability and physical health. It helps participants learn balance and strength and provides a great opportunity to socialize and meet new people.

Do I need to have dance experience to participate? 
No, we welcome all individuals. Dance experience is not required.

Who can I contact for more information? 
* Hamilton/Burlington/Brantford lead: Christine Smith – (905) 632 – 5000 ext.6240 [email protected]
* Oakville lead: Lisa Newman – (905) 845 – 5597 ext.427 [email protected]
* Niagara lead: Samantha Cameron – (905) 735 – 6959 ext.487 [email protected]
*Senior YMCA Advisor: Genevieve Hladysh – (905) 929 – 7273 [email protected]