Rebecca was inspired by Bongo’s Bingo – an energetic mix of bingo, music, and dancing which has become popular among younger generations. But Rebecca began to question why such fun should be reserved for the younger crowd.
“Why can’t the elderly play a lively game of bingo too?” she said. “It’s about bringing some life to bingo, and changing how older people are seen.”
Boogie Bingo got off to a rather cold start, as the first session in January had to be cancelled due to snow. Rebecca admitted she was worried people might lose interest but come the February, there was a solid turnout.
Boogie Bingo starts off like a traditional game, but when tracks like YMCA come on, people can sit, stand, dance or sing along. Then its “eyes down” and the game continues. Props add to the fun, and a team of 3–4 volunteers from Age Concern Todmorden are on hand to welcome people at the door, help with refreshments, and join in as you can see in their promo video here.
According to a Sport England survey from 2022-23, 62% of all 55–74-year-olds are physically active (150 minutes of moderate exercise a week). At ages 75 and above, that number drops to 43%, a 20% decrease. But the same data also shows that over 75’s are driving growth in overall adult activity levels.
The survey suggests that long-term health issues and a lack of accessible options are key reasons older people may not stay active – something Rebecca is keen to changeusing movement and dance.
“People feel challenged by the word ‘exercise,’ I believe dancing is the best way to get moving,” says Rebecca.
Rebecca herself danced from an early age, practicing ballet, tap and ballroom dancing from 5-11 years old. She fell out of love with the strict routine but never forgot the freedom and joy that dance gave her.
“Back then it was all about discipline, but now it’s about the freedom. I love the feeling – it makes me feel better,” she said.
“I used to be self-conscious, but now I dance like no-one is watching. And when I see people dance in their 80’s, it makes me want to dance ‘til I die.”
Through Inspire Motivate Transform, Rebecca has a regular timetable of classes. For her, it’s not about getting it perfect – it’s about helping people feel better in themselves and with others.
“It’s not about ‘this is what you need to do,’ it’s about the vibrancy, the music, the physical, and the social,” said Rebecca.
A key part of Boogie Bingo is the social side. Having a regular place to meet others is important for anyone, but especially for older people who may find it more difficult to stay connected.
“When the elderly come out here it’s not to see but to be seen, to meet, to talk, make friends. I’m there to encourage them to move, but more than that, to feel part of something.”
Boogie Bingo is held on the first Tuesday of every month, between 11:30am – 1pm at Ridgefoot Retirement Living in Todmorden.
If you would like to know more about Boogie Bingo, please contact hello@imtforever.co.uk or call 07510 187211.
