Older People's Day celebration is belly good

Published by AD for Sarsen Housing Association in Housing and also in Health

Residents and staff learned the art of belly dancing with an event to celebrate UK Older People’s Day at Ridgeway Community Housing Association’s extra-care scheme Meadow Court.

More than 50 residents, friends and health professionals enjoyed afternoon tea and exotic entertainment from professional dancer Heather Rose. With a few belly dancing tips under their belts, the audience joined in and later staff in traditional black and white waitress uniforms served tea.

Scheme manager Anne Walsh said: “It was a lovely afternoon. Belly dancing is a gentle exercise and great for older people, as it helps relax muscles and joints, and improves circulation. Lots of people had a go and some of our frailer residents played the maracas and tambourines.”

Older People’s Day, a government initiative, celebrates the contribution older people make to their communities and helps bring people of all ages together. Last year, more than 50,000 people took part in 900 events around the country.

Extra-care housing lets frail and older people live in their own home with support, including personal care, help with domestic tasks and providing meals. The scheme at Meadow Court has 24 apartments, as well as seven houses and a bungalow on site, and communal facilities including a lounge/dining area, hobbies room, laundry room and maintained gardens.