Twenty years of research shows that music song and dance can make a real difference for people living with dementia. 

Dancing Recall is bringing people with dementia together to enjoy regular dance sessions, with many benefits for their health and wellbeing. ​
Daphne Cushnie, a neurological physiotherapist and specialist in dance for neurodegenerative conditions and Susie Tate, a specialist dance in education and health practitioner developed Dancing Recall to provide enjoyment and exercise for people with dementia. 

​Dancing Recall offers respite and stimulation for people living with dementia and their caregivers. Groups are held across Cumbria, running currently  in Carlisle, Penrith and Keswick.
As a neurological physiotherapist I understand how the mental and physical effects of dementia impact movement. That knowledge underpins every aspect of our sessions, making them safe and effective without detracting from fun and creativity.
Daphne Cushnie

Benefits of dance for dementia

  • Stimulates the retrieval of memories.
  • Develops concentration.
  • Encourages people to respond to their immediate environment.
  • Exercises mind, memory, voice and body.
  • ​Clinically reasoned.
  • Adaptable for different stages of dementia.
  • Person centred healthcare integrating arts and science.
  • In line with the latest NICE guidelines and the National Dementia Strategy.

Training courses for healthcare professionals

We also offer training courses for healthcare professionals, health and social care students, dance and health students and dance artists, you'll find more information here.

More about dancing Recall

'Dancing Recall' is a pilot project is managed by Active Cumbria and has been developed in partnership with Cumbria County Council, NHS Cumbria and Dance Cumbria (a consortium of local dance practitioners) as part of the Cumbria Dementia Strategy Action Plan. It is supported by Age UK and Alzheimer’s Society.

NHS award winning programme

Cumbrian dance project Dancing Recall scooped the “Developing a Shared Culture Project” award at the Health Education North West Adult Learners’ Week awards ceremony in Manchester.
Dancing Recall is an innovative countywide community dance and movement project, specifically designed for people living with dementia and their care-givers. The project was designed by ​neurological physiotherapist and community dance artist Daphne Cushnie.
It uses a model founded on the values of community dance where relationship, creativity and community building are key,
​Read the full article about the Dancing Recall award here

IT' A FUN, IMAGINATIVE AND SOCIABLE WAY TO EXERCISE!