Movement, Music, and Connection: Older Adults' Experiences of Community Dance

This research explored how participation in community dance supports older adults' aging journey through a theoretical framework of successful aging, physical literacy, and embodiment. Older adults (aged 71-87 years) with experience participating in a community dance class completed semi-structured interviews that were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Six themes were generated: (1) laughter, lightness, and feeling youthful; (2) the body comes back to life; (3) confidence can shine; (4) carried away by the music; (5) an opportunity to belong; and (6) contributing to the neighborhood spirit. Our findings suggest that dancing offers multidimensional benefits which can contribute to healthy, active aging.