Dancing through Parkinson’s: Senior Center to offer classes in Spanish

A new, specialized Spanish-language dance class is being offered by Jewish Family & Children’s Service at the Waltham Stanley Senior Center starting this Thursday, March 12. 

The Spanish-language Parkinson’s Dance Class is designed to help individuals with Parkinson’s improve mobility, balance and coordination, which are common challenges with the disease.

Instructor Rafael Rivera trained with the founders of the Dance for PD program, a collaborative initiative with the Brooklyn Parkinson Group and the Mark Morris Dance Group, founded by famed choreographer Mark Morris. 

The class uses adapted movements that can be done sitting or standing, allowing participants with different mobility levels to participate safely. No dance experience is required.

Energizing and inspiring music is used to guide participants as they learn practical movement methods that address balance, coordination and confidence. 

Classes will be taught primarily in Spanish, but all are welcome.

The program is free and offered by the APDA Massachusetts Chapter in conjunction with Jewish Family & Children’s Service and Waltham Connections for Healthy Aging.

The class will take place once a month on Thursdays, 10-11:30 a.m., at the Waltham Senior Center, 488 Main St. Space is limited. Call 781-314-3499 to register.