Dancing makes you smarter, according to research that proves social dancing is among the best ways to maintain brain health.
And it’s also great fun and exercise.
That’s why the Hilo Hep Cats swing dancers, the Hilo Elks Lodge and several East Hawaii dance instructors are joining the Alzheimer’s Association Aloha Chapter to host Dance-abration, a medley of dance opportunities, from 7-11 p.m. Saturday at the Hilo Elks Lodge.
Participants not only will donate to support the Alzheimer’s Association’s observance of the Longest Day — when people nationwide gather to show their love for those affected by Alzheimer’s disease — but they’ll be able to participate in a variety of different dance styles.
The entry fee is $15-$20, on a sliding scale, and additional donations are appreciated. All ages are welcome; children 12 and younger are free. No partner or experience is necessary.
The dance styles demonstrated and taught will include international folk dance, four-count hustle, country heat and balboa. Each mini lesson will give you a taste of the wide variety of dance opportunities in East Hawaii. In addition to demonstrations and mini lessons, a DJ will play music suitable for a wide variety of dancing throughout the evening.
Patrick Toal with the Alzheimer’s Association also will answer questions and provide information.
Funds raised during the Dance-abration will help support the Aloha Chapter’s activities, including free presentations and written materials about topics such as dementia, legal affairs and behavior. Toal also provides referrals, counseling and information at no cost to more than 300 caregivers each year.
The New England Journal of Medicine reported in 2003 that participation in some leisure activities is associated with a reduced risk of dementia. The results showed frequent dancing provides the greatest risk reduction of any activity studied.
The Hilo Elks Lodge is located at 150 Kinoole St. in downtown Hilo. Park in the rear off Ululani Street. The dance hall is upstairs.
For more information about the Longest Day initiative, visit alz.org/longestday.
For more information about the Dance-abration, contact Gill at 959-8216 or Toal at 591-2771, ext. 8234.