WHO WE SERVE

Dance for Connection facilitates joyous expressive dance groups for people with dementia in the Greater Boston area at memory care residences, memory cafés, and individual sessions in people’s homes. Founded and led by dance/movement therapist Donna Newman-Bluestein, our work refutes the tragic perspective of a dementia diagnosis, replacing it instead with a story of beauty, joy, and love stemming from community.

WHY IT WORKS

As we move to music both in our seats or on our feet, our dance programs inspire vitality while also enhancing neuroplasticity, even in people who appear apathetic and disengaged. Almost everyone leaves a session smiling, more alert, and more connected to the people around them.

Dance Sessions

We offer direct dance sessions can be booked for groups—for long-term care, memory care, and memory cafés—and individual sessions that can be scheduled in people’s homes in the Eastern Massachusetts and greater Boston area.

Trainings

We offer trainings locally, nationally, and internationally (and occasionally virtually) to caregivers, dancers, dance teachers and dance/movement and expressive therapists and others who love to dance.

Reach out to Donna to discover how Dance for Connection can help bring movement into your life. 

a tool for connection

The Octaband® is a powerful, joy-filled tool designed to spark connection, movement, rhythm and shared experience. Donna created the Octaband® to build community and belonging for people with dementia, who often face feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Though initially designed with people with dementia in mind, the Octaband can be used to foster connection for people of all ages and abilities. You can purchase the Octaband here.