This evaluation of the Dance to Health programme had two clear objectives: evaluate whether Dance to Health provides the health system with an effective and cost-effective means to address the issue of older people’s falls; and evaluate whether Dance to Health helps older people in danger of falling overcome lost confidence, reduced independence and increased isolation.

A mixed-methods approach was used to collect quantitative and qualitative data. Findings from the research show that Dance to Health is helping older people in danger of falling overcome lost confidence, reduced independence and increased isolation. There was a 58% reduction in the number of falls, positive improvement in participants’ physical and mental wellbeing and reduced fear in falling. The evidence within this report outlines that Dance to Health offers the health system an effective and cost-effective means to address the issue of older people’s falls.

Sports Industry Research Centre (2020). Dance to Health 'Phase 1 roll-out [test and learn]' evaluation Final report. Aesop.