The Longest Dance For 50 Million People

CHICAGO, June 29, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- COVID-19 did not stop Senior Lifestyle residents from using the longest day of the year to participate in a virtual dance party. On June 21, Senior Lifestyle's residents and team members joined in The Longest Dance and a subsequent Spirit Week from June 22-26 to raise support and awareness for the 50 million people battling Alzheimer's.

The Longest Dance marks Senior Lifestyle's fourth year joining the Alzheimer's Association as a global partner during The Longest Day. Seniors at all communities across the country submitted dance videos, inviting anyone who would like to support finding a cure for Alzheimer's to send in their own video footage to join the dance – all from a safe distance.

"For many of us, dancing can feel silly or undignified, especially when you don't know the steps. For our seniors with dementia and Alzheimer's, this is what each day can begin to feel like as they slowly forget some of the most basic steps to daily living," Cathleen O'Brien, Vice President of Resident Experience, said.

O'Brien shared that the reality of life with Alzheimer's and dementia felt particularly relevant in light of the time many people have spent in isolation over the past few months. While the shelter-in-place orders will have an end, for those with dementia, each day is the same. Families and residents alike will say that one of the most challenging aspects of memory loss is feeling that loss of dignity and facing the uncertainty of each day.

For many people, spending extended time at home over the last few months has led to moments of anxiety, loneliness, monotony, depression, confusion, stress, and more. For our seniors with dementia and Alzheimer's, this is what each day begins to feel like. O'Brien added that raising awareness through dance also reflects Senior Lifestyle's signature dancing couple logo, and has created an opportunity to collaborate across the country in a friendly dance competition between communities.

"Families and residents alike will tell you one of the most challenging aspects of memory loss is feeling that loss of dignity. That's why this year, we're challenging all of our residents, family members, team members, business partners, and friends to become a little undignified by joining the dance to help fight for the dignity of those battling Alzheimer's disease," O'Brien said.

To join in Senior Lifestyle's initiative, view community dance videos, see photos of communities participating in Spirit Week theme days, or donate, visit Senior Lifestyle's Facebook page.

About Senior Lifestyle:

Senior Lifestyle, founded in 1985, is a privately-held, owner-operator and developer of senior housing communities. With a portfolio of more than 180 communities located throughout 27 states, Senior Lifestyle offers independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing for the luxury, moderate and affordable segments. Senior Lifestyle has been routinely recognized as a leader in the delivery of innovative programs and hospitality services for all levels of care. For more information, visit www.seniorlifestyle.com.

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SOURCE Senior Lifestyle Corporation