Every Friday, people in their 60s through to their 90s gather for Danzability in Porirua. Some have Parkinson’s disease, some have arthritis, some are recovering from strokes. All are there to stay strong, connected, and independent.
For Mary Booth, who is living with cerebral palsy, it’s become the highlight of her week.
“This class has helped me with my balance, my co-ordination, my confidence. I love coming to my dance class and seeing all of my friends,” Mary says.
The benefits became especially clear when Mary broke her hip in a fall. She went out to the clothesline at home, had parked her walker out in front of her and put her hand on the seat, but she had forgotten to apply the brakes. Subsequently, she fell over, landed on her left side, and hit her face on the ground.
Falls are the most common cause of injury in New Zealand, accounting for nearly 40 per cent of all ACC injury claims. Every year one in three people over the age of 65 is injured in a fall. This number rises to one in two once seniors reach 80.
Mary could have sat at home through her recovery, but Danzability gave her something to work towards. Her first goal was simply getting back to class to see everyone. She started classes seated, then gradually as her strength and confidence returned, she got back on her feet.
“I have osteoarthritis and some days I can hardly walk, but classes help and has made a real difference to me.”
Community Strength and Balance classes offer older people a safe and enjoyable way to stay mobile, confident, and independent.
Led by trained instructors, sessions help participants build their strength and stability so they can keep doing the things they love.
“Exercise is medicine; it’s also a lot cheaper than injuring yourself and having to go into hospital, or into care,” says Rachel Horwell, physiotherapist and Danzability instructor. “By keeping your mind sharp and your body strong, you can age well.”
But for Mary, the benefits go beyond the physical.
“Danzability brings me joy and it brings joy to others in their week,” she says. “It’s important to have things to look forward to in life, so you can thrive. I’m really glad Danzability is a part of my life.”
Whether it’s dancing, staying active, or simply connecting with friends, Community Strength and Balance classes help people stay engaged in ways that matter most.
Discover how an hour or two a week can make a difference to your independence and quality of life. Visit www.livestronger.org.nz to find a class near you.
