At the Harlawhill day care center in Prestonpans, near Edinburgh, a controversial decision was made to host a belly dancer for the entertainment of the pensioners.
Lorna, the dancer, was tasked with not only putting on a performance but also providing lessons on the art of belly dancing.
The aim was to keep the elderly residents active, as belly dancing is considered a beneficial form of exercise.
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The event took place last Friday (26 Apr), and attendees, ranging from 70 to 97 years old, thoroughly enjoyed participating in the class.
According to a spokesperson from the care center, the decision to host a belly dancing class with Lorna was aimed at introducing some cultural diversity to the activities at Harlawhill. “A bit of culture at Harlawhill, a belly dancing class with the lovely Lorna,”
the spokesperson said. They highlighted the active participation of everyone involved, emphasizing the enjoyment and sense of camaraderie experienced during the session. “Everyone joined in, what a laugh but also hard work,”
they added. The spokesperson also mentioned the center’s commitment to seeking feedback from its members regarding the entertainers and activities provided.
“We always ask our members for feedback on all the entertainers and activities that we provide,” they stated, “We listen to and include members at all times.”
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The feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing enjoyment and laughter during the session, along with the benefits of a good exercise workout.
“Everyone said they had enjoyed the session and had lots of laughs as well as having a good exercise workout,” remarked a spokesperson from the care center.
Reflecting on the experience, they emphasized that growing old at Harlawhill was anything but boring. However, locals had mixed reactions to the activity, with some questioning its suitability.
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One local, Golden Lynn Letricia, humorously remarked, “The old men are going to need neck braces, maybe some extra meds.”
Alison Lindsay expressed, “Not what I would call appropriate for these folk. Those men must be very frustrated, it seems a bit embarrassing to be honest.”
Crystal Sedillo, commenting, “I think they were slightly uncomfortable.”
Jessica Hodgson added humorously, “Next week pole dancing lessons.” In contrast, Mitchel Stevenson applauded the diversity, stating, “I definitely want to go there when I’m older. Fabulous to see diversity in action, well done everyone.”
Sarah Maynard expressed, “I absolutely love this, they all looked like they did too.” Zoe Barrans also appreciated the activity, remarking, “Those old fellas’ faces, I love this, bet it’s brightened up their day.”
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