An exercise class for care home residents could soon be extended to more people in the north-east.
Qigong sessions are already being run in homes across Aberdeenshire after a study found participation helped to improve social interaction and quality of movement.
The exercises – a series of simple and gentle movements based on Chinese philosophy – have been found to be particularly suited for dementia sufferers as participants do not need to memorise sequences.
Aberdeenshire Council already has 41 employees trained to run the classes in care homes, very sheltered housing and day centres, where 300 people take part regularly.
Now further funding has been secured to train another 26 staff.
Councillor Karen Clark, chairwoman of the local authority’s social work and housing committee, said: “For those with dementia it is not easy to access an enjoyable way to exercise steadily for up to one hour.
“However, Qigong is well received by men and women with dementia, and is a relaxed and enjoyable group activity.”
