Media Centre

Tackling elderly social isolation with dance

Publish Date: 15/09/2008
Author: Marketing & Communications Dept

A tea dance for elderly Baptcare clients and older residents living in the City of Monash was held in mid September. The event aimed to help bring the elderly community together, to encourage them to mix and build new friendships.

Many of the 100 attendees invited to the tea dance were lonely, so the event was intended to bring them together and give them a chance to mingle, dance and reminisce over some of the great classics as well as some rock ‘n’ roll.

“Many elderly people can feel isolated within their community if they do not have regular contact with friends or family. It is vital that events such as this continue to operate in order to reconnect these older adults to others in their community,” said Baptcare’s Chief Executive, Mr Jeff Davey.

The event also let the Monash community know that support options are available to the elderly through Baptcare's community aged care services.

The afternoon event featured a series of performances including special guests, Okeh Jazz band, a community choir and a dancing demonstration.