December 19, 2024
At Immanuel, each day can present an opportunity for seniors to embrace life’s possibilities.
This fall, residents at Lakeside, an Immanuel Signature Community in Omaha, embraced this opportunity and partnered with Contemporary Dance for the Ageless and Unstoppable. The program, made possible by the Nebraska Arts Council Creative Aging Grant (with the support of the Nebraska Arts Council and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment), culminated in a Show and Share performance on November 26.
Led by Ruth Davidson Hahn — a professional dancer and choreographer with specialized training in creative aging methods — the program was more than a dance class: it was a journey of discovery, resilience, and joy. With the assistance of Lakeside’s Thrive Wellness Coordinator, Allison Ridgway, the program was a welcoming environment where residents explored the art of movement while nurturing their minds, bodies, and spirits.
Residents learned choreography inspired by storytelling and creative imagery, practiced brain-teasing lyrical dances, and even crafted themed routines together.
“The physical impact of dance on balance, strength, flexibility, and coordination are the more commonly thought-of benefits,” Allison said. “This program was so much more than just exercise, though. We learned so much from Ruth. Not only the history of dance and the different styles, but she shared the messages found in movement and entertained us with stories of working with some of the greats, helping give insight into the world of dance.”
For many of the participating residents, this program was about stepping out of their comfort zones and embracing new challenges.
“The experience I had at the dance program was real comforting and rewarding,” said resident Carol Applegate. “It gave me a sense of pride. I would recommend it to everyone. I had so many people ask if they could do it because they saw that you didn’t have to get out of your chair, so I hope we have a chance to do it again. I think we might have a lot more people involved. Ruth is a wonderful patient instructor.”
Music played an influential role throughout the program. Familiar pieces by Bernstein and Pachelbel connected participants to the rhythms of the routines, making the dances easier to learn while enhancing mood and focus.
“Listening to music has the ability to reduce stress, enhance mood, focus, and sleep while the workout it gives the brain strengthens memory and cognitive skills,” said Allison. “Adding music with movement makes both more impactful.”
The program also highlighted the importance of community. Residents built strong bonds from practicing routines together to cheering each other on during the final performance. The dancers’ grace and determination moved family members and residents who attended Show and Share.
“Dance strengthens the mind, body, and spirit. Having special programs like this strengthens the sense of community and helps to get more people moving,” said Allison. “Fitness is not a one-size-fits-all thing, but oftentimes, people don’t realize that there are more options than lifting weights and cardio. The performance allowed us to plant a seed with the audience, showing them that movement is also available and important for them.”
Blending movement, creativity, and connection, these experiences empower residents to embrace new challenges, strengthen their well-being, and celebrate life’s possibilities. Whether through dance, art, or other innovative programs, Immanuel’s communities continue to inspire a lifestyle of vitality, growth, and joy.
“It was an amazing experience dancing with Ruth Davidson Hahn. She is a wonderful instructor and made me feel I could dance again," said Lakeside resident Dody McGinnis. "I’m 87 years old and need a walker to help with standing and walking. This was truly a gift to learn and do the dances by Ruth, not only as an individual, but with a senior group.”
