Wake Forest University researchers study how dance helps older adults, especially those with Parkinson's disease and dementia. Their IMPROVment method uses improvised movement and verbal cues to help people think on their feet and move better. Studies show dance classes improve balance, brain connections, and quality of life for seniors with memory problems.
The research includes brain scans that prove dance creates new connections in the brain. They've published several studies and a manual to help others start similar programs. This work shows how creative movement can be medicine for aging brains and bodies.