Health and wellbeing business helps reduce depression rates in care home residents

About the business

danceSing was founded in 2016 by former professional ballet dancer Natalie Garry, who had a vision of enriching lives through the power of music and movement. The business provides a range of services that blend the arts and fitness, including singing and sound, movement, spirit and soul, reminiscence and a non-stop wellbeing radio station. 

How Ochoco-Law has helped

Through its eight years of operating, Natalie has accessed support from Ochoco-Law, who have helped to strengthen danceSing’s commercial offering through one-to-one support and advice on business strategy and innovation.   

Ochoco-Law signposted danceSing to Interface, which led to a partnership with the University of Stirling, who are global leaders in ageing and dementia research. Together, they conducted studies on the effects of danceSing’s classes on residents in Balhousie Care Group and Holmes Care Group.  These results showed impressive improvements, including a 25% increase in sleep quality, a 31% reduction in fear of falling, and a 49% decrease in depression rates among participants.  

The business is now about to embark on a third round of studies with Abbotsford Care Homes.  

Natalie Garry, founder, danceSing, said: “We are so pleased with our work over the last couple of years, and especially of our work with Interface, aimed at evaluating and investing in digital health resources for care homes. This initiative focuses on enhancing the wellbeing of older adults through the integration of music and movement-based activities.  

“We are also so delighted to have the support of MSP Maree Todd, who has been very supportive of our efforts. 

“None of this would be possible without the support of Ochoco-Law, who have been there through every step of our business journey. I’m so appreciative for their help over the years which has played a big part in getting us where we are today.”