Maria Hansen knew she was on the right path during the very first dance class she piloted for people with dementia in Carmel, California. She met a man with the difficult diagnosis of Lewy body dementia. His wife was worried about him joining the class, but Maria suggested he might just enjoy the music.

Ballroom dancing isn’t just fun; it can boost both cognitive and physical health as you age. Ember Reichgott Junge shares how getting on the dance floor can improve wellness. She is joined by dancers Dennis Yelkin and dance professional Johanna Engebretson of Soul Ballroom.

The science is clear. Frequent partner dancing reduces the risk of dementia by 76 percent, more than any other physical or cognitive activity. Dr. Trisha Pasricha, the Ask a Doctor columnist of The Washington Post describes in this video the research that supports that stunning result. Dancing may reduce your risk of dementia by 76%

But what about the millions of people already living with dementia in our country, as well as their caregivers and families? You meet them where they are. Dance continues to bring them health benefits, joy, and most of all, community.