Heart of the Home Series
Alzheimer’s Care
Music Therapy
Dance Therapy
EnhDme Feature ❖ Heart of the Home Series
A dance teacher and her mother living with Alzheimer’s. In every video, they are dancing. Just… dancing. And it is pure magic.
By Kevin Lambing, CEO & Certified DME Specialist (CDME) · February 2026 · EnhDme Editorial
I come across amazing caregivers every single day, but there are some that stop me right in my tracks. I recently met Alex, the heart behind the page Shuffle With Alex. Alex is a dance teacher, and her mom, Ronna, is living with Alzheimer’s. In every video, they are dancing. Just… dancing.
It immediately took me back to that viral footage from Alive Inside — the gentleman in the assisted living facility who was non-verbal until a caregiver placed headphones on him. He didn’t just wake up; he came alive. I remember sitting at my computer having a total cry over it.
I started researching the effects of music on cognitive disabilities. It’s wild how the brain works. I might forget a name, but I can recite every word of a Biggie Smalls or Rakim album from decades ago. The synapses activated by music are among the last to fade.
“By dancing in the sunshine and sharing these rhythms, Alex is providing a level of therapy she might not even fully realize. It’s physical, it’s emotional, and it is pure magic.”
The Interview: A Mother, A Daughter, and a Waltz
The Breakthrough
Alex, you teach dance every day. What has your mom taught you about movement that you never learned in a studio?
“The healing power of dance. I’ve seen it break the barriers that Alzheimer’s, depression, and anxiety create. It’s more than a hobby; it’s a way to overcome tragedy.”
Is there a specific “breakthrough” song that brings her back to you?
“Lady Gaga’s Harlequin album. She knows all the oldies on there. Combined with Gaga’s vocals, that album really brings her to life!”
Music as Medicine
When you’re dancing, does it feel like you’re talking to her past self or her present self?
“It’s a combination. Her past self is there because the barriers of Alzheimer’s vanish. But her present self is there, too — the roles have shifted. I’m the one caring for her now, even on the dance floor.”
In an isolating disease, how much of her progress is just the simple act of holding hands?
“It’s a main factor. When we dance, her limitations feel limited. She sings along to songs from her past and she has found a real community in our Saturday park dance class. She isn’t just a person receiving care; she’s part of a group.”
Tips for the “Bad Days”
What does dance look like when symptoms are heavy?
“There are definitely bad days. She might get upset that she can’t keep up or even throw a tantrum. But the more consistent we’ve been, the fewer those moments become.”
What if a family has “zero rhythm”? Where do they start?
“Just listen. Find their favorite songs from the past. ‘Dance’ can be anything — holding hands and walking in a circle or just a walk to music. The pairing of movement and music is the power.”
The Big Picture: Redefining the Diagnosis
Alex wants the world to see that Alzheimer’s isn’t just an end — it can be a different kind of beginning. Her dream? To see insurance companies cover music and dance therapy as a standard treatment for Alzheimer’s.
A Note to New Caregivers from Alex:
“Find a balance. Caregiver fatigue is real. Find activities that are meaningful for both of you — whether it’s reading, getting outside, or dancing. Do things that fulfill you as an independent person, too.”
We Want to Hear Your Story
Are you a medical professional or a family caregiver with a story to tell? Help us shine a light on the grit and grace of caregiving.
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You are not alone. You CAN care, cope, survive, and thrive!
Note: This story is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician regarding medical conditions.
