How Chair Yoga Brought Joy To the Guests

Sunday, October 27th, 2024

By: Charlotte Hendrey

Today, I introduced Chair Yoga to the guests. I have learned that seniors with dementia can struggle with following directions, but despite that, I think that they did a pretty good job. I played music from the 1940’s and the 1950’s, and they all knew the songs! Few of them were doing the dancing, but they were mostly singing along or lip syncing to the words.

The caretakers told me that they had never done Chair Yoga before, and that it was a really great activity for them because they love music. One guest (on the left) was especially engaging, and enjoyed dancing and singing in her chair along with me. Chair Yoga is known to be good for senior citizens because it improves muscle strength, balance, but most of all, makes them happy.

When it was time for me to leave, the lady (on the left) asked me when I could come back, and told me she looks forward to my next visit. Even though people have told me “you don’t want to volunteer there”, because the people “don’t like to engage”, I find that to be false. Although their dementia may limit their abilities, they still enjoy doing fun activities, and as long as I lead them and help them, they are able to have a good time! I am learning about the different stages of dementia.

I have found that at every stage there is always something I can do differently in the activities I plan based on their personal capabilities. They do not have to fully participate, as long as they are smiling and happy, I consider the day a success.