We are excited to announce that PEARL Movements© is coming to Apārangi Village on Friday 6 March at 10.30am at the bowling club
PEARL Movements is a music-based dance programme designed especially for older adults. The 45 minute community sessions support strength and balance by weaving evidence-informed falls prevention principles into enjoyable, expressive movement to music. Participants can choose to move seated or standing and are encouraged to go at their own pace. The focus is on feeling confident, steady and uplifted while enjoying moving together in a supportive community setting.
The programme was created by Dr Francine Hills, who lives in The Coromandel and works as a Health Promoter with Age Concern Hauraki Coromandel. With a background in dance, ageing and falls prevention research, and having previously led a dance as falls prevention project for the NHS in Wales, Francine has spent many years exploring how creative movement can support strength, balance, confidence and connection in later life. Together with co founder Jo Sanderson (originally from Te Kauwhata), she recognised there was very little in the community offering accessible, enjoyable movement options specifically designed for older adults, and PEARL Movements© was created in response to that need.
As well as community sessions, PEARL Movements© also offers individual memberships for those who prefer to move at home. Members are accessing the programme not only across New Zealand but around the world, and one participant even took PEARL with her on holiday in her motorhome so she could continue her routine while away.
The morning at Apārangi Village will begin with a short introduction by Francine, followed by a gentle taster session led by her. There will be time afterwards for a cuppa and conversation.
Residents, care staff and members of the wider community are warmly invited to attend. We look forward to sharing this fun, safe and engaging movement experience with you.
Francine & Jo
