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On this bright spring morning, Zhao Meihua just walked into the community park, and a doctor's words floated in her ears:
"Did you know that regular social dancing can significantly improve cognitive function in middle-aged and older adults? ”
This quote comes from a group of people next to them who are discussing health issues intensely.
Zhao Meihua, a 62-year-old retired librarian, was driven by curiosity to join the discussion about health and quality of life in old age.
In her retirement, Zhao Meihua chose to participate in square dancing every morning to stay active.
She initially made this decision just to pass the time, but a year later, she was pleasantly surprised to find that not only did she lose weight, but even her doctors praised her blood pressure and blood sugar levels for staying within a healthy range.
Zhao Meihua enthusiastically shared her experience with her neighbors: "When I started, I just thought dancing was fun and I could meet my friends, but I didn't expect it to be so good. ”
When she said this, her face was filled with pride that could not be concealed.
As the conversation deepened, a geriatrician named Dr. Chen joined the discussion.
Dr. Chen explains, "Square dancing is not just a physical activity, it has incredible benefits.
It's an effective way to interact socially, reduce loneliness, increase self-confidence, and release stress. ”
Dr. Chen further elaborated on the benefits of square dancing on the cognitive function of the elderly.
He referred to a study that involved 200 participants between the ages of 60 and 75 who were randomly divided into two groups, one for square dance training and the other for no specific physical activity.
The study found that the group that adhered to square dancing performed significantly better than the control group in performing functional tests and memory tests.
"Not only that," Dr. Chen continued, "square dancing also improves your balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falling."
This is especially important to prevent fractures and other related injuries. ”
Zhao Meihua was even more excited after hearing this, and she recalled that the changes she had made in the past year were not only reflected in her physical health.
She found that her social circle had expanded considerably.
Square dancing has become a bridge between her and the rest of the community, and many previously unfamiliar faces are now her dance partners and even friends.
Driven by square dancing, Zhao Meihua not only increased her physical activity, but also actively participated in various activities in the community, from community volunteers to organizers of health talks.
Her life has become more fulfilling and colorful.
However, the most compelling view may come from an unlikely angle: square dancing has a positive effect on the microbiome of older adults.
Dr. Chen mentioned that although it may not sound directly related;
But in reality, increased physical activity can improve gut health, which is closely related to the overall immune system, mood swings, and more.
"In fact, every time we exercise, we adjust our gut microbiota to some extent, and gut health is thought to have a direct link with anti-aging and overall health. ”
Dr. Chen explained in detail the impact of physical activity on gut microbiota diversity and how this feeds back into overall health.
While square dancing has many benefits, how can more seniors be involved and sustain the habit?
In this regard, we can start from the perspective of the community and explore how to improve the awareness and participation of the elderly in square dancing and other healthy activities through community activities and health education.
The community can organize more dance activities in various forms and introduce professional coaches to guide them;
At the same time, by holding regular health lectures and workshops, the awareness and ability of the elderly to manage their own health are enhanced, so that square dancing becomes an indispensable part of their lives.
What do you have to say about this? Feel free to leave your thoughts in the comment section!