This project aims to build community networks to co-develop and sustain dance programs for people living with dementia and those at risk, focusing on racialized, Indigenous, and equity-deserving communities in Nova Scotia and Northwest Territories. It aims to enhance wellbeing, foster social inclusion, and challenge the stigma around dementia.
Key information
Who is this project for? People living with dementia or people at risk and their carers, knowledge users and trainees, and decision makers, organizations, local government in target regions of NWT and NS
Project Lead: Canada’s National Ballet School
Project partners: Northwest Territories Government of Northwest Territories Northwest Territories Recreation and Parks Association Bella Dance Academy Nova Scotia Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia Association of Black Social Workers Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia Health Association for African Canadians LaMeia Reddick Project Advisory Baycrest KITE-UHN
Project status: ongoing, 2025 - 2027
Project location: Lead organization is based in Toronto, Ontario; and program implementation is taking place in Nova Scotia (focused on North Preston) and Northwest Territories (focused on Dehcho region)
Project team members:
- Jenna Rose-Freeman, Director Business Operations and Government Relations
- Rachel Bar, Director Research and Health
- Ashleigh Powell, Director Teacher Training and Community Dance
- Megan Ferris, Manager of Community School and Older Adult Programs
- Caitlin Marziali, Coordinator of Indigenous Relations
- Martine Plourde, Senior Coordinator Business Operations and Government Relations
- Maleehah Qadri, Research and Project Coordinator
Get in touch:
Project story
Background:
This project emerged in response to the growing recognition that dementia care in Canada often fails to meet the needs of racialized and equity-deserving communities. Building off NBS’ Sharing Dance Older Adults program, the current project will focus on community co-design/creation and deliver community-led dance programs in Nova Scotia and the Northwest Territories that promote physical, cognitive, emotional and social wellbeing. By engaging PLWD, carers, and community organizations, it aims to reduce stigma and increase understanding of dementia through inclusive, creative expression.
Goals:
- Emphasis is placed on local partnerships to ensure co-designed programs reflect community priorities and are sustainable beyond the project term
- Project builds on a strong evidence base through 10+ years of the Baycrest NBS Sharing Dance Older Adults program’s development, evaluation, research and delivery.
- Prioritizing health equity by focusing on racialized and equity-deserving communities in NS and NWT