A WEE COUNTY  health and wellbeing business has helped cut depression rates among care home residents almost in half.

danceSing, founded by former professional ballet dancer Natalie Garry in 2016, offers classes that blend music and movement.

Studies conducted with the University of Stirling, global leaders in ageing and dementia research, found that these classes reduced depression rates in care home residents at Balhousie Care Group and Holmes Care Group by 49 per cent over 12 weeks.

The studies also noted a 25 per cent improvement in sleep quality and a 31 per cent reduction in fear of falling.

danceSing, founded by former professional ballet dancer Natalie Garry in 2016, offers classes that blend music and movement (Image: BIG Partnership) It now has 12 consultants providing training and support to care teams across the UK.

In 2022, the business won a contract with the Scottish Government to deliver its classes in 77 care homes across Scotland.

Ms Garry 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 delighted to have the support of MSP Maree Todd, who has been very supportive of our efforts.”

Business Gateway has supported danceSing over the years, helping to strengthen its commercial offering.

Lynn Dickson, adviser at Business Gateway Clackmannanshire, said: "Natalie’s passion for championing wellbeing through the arts and fitness, combined with her industry expertise, is what sets danceSing apart.

"These statistics show just how powerful an impact the business’ classes can have."

The business is now preparing for a third round of studies with Abbotsford Care Homes and will collaborate with some American care homes in 2025.