'Strictly' stars encourage local people to "keep dancing"

Photo: Bupa resident Clifford Morgan and Eliza Evans, with Ann Widdecombe and Anton Du Beke 

June 2011

'Strictly' dance stars Ann Widdecombe and Anton Du Beke are encouraging as many people as possible to take part in 'Shall We Dance' (20-27 June), an initiative organised by Bupa care homes to promote the physical and mental health benefits of dance.

Staff and residents at over 300 Bupa care homes across the UK are preparing to put on their dancing shoes for 'Shall We Dance' and are inviting family, friends, and their local communities to join them.

A Bupa report has revealed that older people don't get enough exercise - just 20% of men and 17% women aged 65-74 get the recommended levels of physical exercise. This matters because taking part in physical activity improves both health and life expectancy. Dance has been shown to be beneficial in the direct treatment of a number of conditions including Parkinson's disease and dementia - as well as promoting the emotional wellbeing of older people and helping to combat isolation.

Throughout 'Shall We Dance', Bupa care homes across the UK will host special dance-related events. Members of their local communities are invited to join in, either by performing, joining in dance sessions or simply enjoying the entertainment on offer.

Ann Widdecombe said: "I know that it's never too late to take to the dance floor. Dancing is something that people of all ages can get involved in and it's a great way to keep active, both physically and mentally."  

Anton du Beke added: "We're hoping lots of people will get involved in Shall We Dance. I'm sure many of Bupa's residents could show me a thing or two from their days on the dance floor!"    

To help inspire people to take part, Bupa has commissioned a specially-choreographed dance, which includes different moves to suit people of all ages and capabilities.

Tracey Fletcher, Bupa's Customer Services Director, said, "'Shall We Dance' is all about getting people moving or mentally active and we think it's fantastic that so many people are taking part. As well as involving our residents, staff and relatives, it's a great opportunity to encourage everyone in our local communities to keep well."

Throughout the week, over 300 UK care homes - as well as Bupa's care homes inNew Zealand, Australia and Spain- will be learning the 'Bupa dance'.

To learn more about Shall We Dance, or to view a video of the 'Bupa dance' and routine instructions, visit www.bupa.co.uk/dance or www.facebook.com/bupaukmemories.

Shall We Dance is part of Bupa's 2011 Global Challenge, its most ambitious challenge to date, involving thousands of residents, staff, relatives and communities across the world.

Client: Bupa Care Homes