For seniors in their 80s: Stay healthy while having fun. Introducing dance songs that make you want to move!
Even in your 80s, you might want to stay active and keep your body moving! Perhaps some of you feel that way.
As we get older, our bodies don’t always move the way we want them to, but that doesn’t mean we want to give up.
In this article, we’ll introduce dance songs recommended for people in their 80s.
We’ve selected songs—like popular enka and folk tunes, as well as disco tracks—that people in their 80s will likely know and that will naturally get you moving.
Pick your favorites and give your body a gentle workout.
Start by loosening up slowly, and dance at your own pace while having fun!
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For Seniors in Their 80s: Stay Healthy with Fun—Introducing Dance Songs That Make You Want to Move (21–30)
disco dance steps
It might just be me, but the word “disco” somehow sounds a bit retro—very Showa era.
These days we’d say “club,” but for many older folks, “club” calls to mind a genteel “kurabu” or social club.
It could be fun to put on some nostalgic Western hits and try a few disco steps.
There are easy dances that even beginners can copy, like the cross step and the bus stop.
Even people who’ve never had any connection to disco will surely have a good time.
For music, I recommend the Bee Gees’ Saturday Night Fever.
Tokyo Ondofolk song
Born in 1933 (Showa 8), this is a classic Bon Odori song that represents Japan.
Its lyrics charmingly sing about Tokyo’s famous spots—like the flowers of Ueno and the willows of Ginza—and its light, friendly melody is very appealing.
The rhythm incorporates the flavor of Kagoshima’s folk song “Ohara-bushi,” making it beloved across generations.
Created by Yaso Saijo and Shinpei Nakayama, it was performed by Katsutaro Kouta and Issei Mishima.
Premiered at a Bon Odori festival held in Hibiya Park, it has long resonated with people as a symbol of Tokyo’s recovery and community revitalization.
Filled with nostalgia and perfect for moving your body with joy, this Bon Odori standard is an ideal choice for summer recreation.
March of 365 StepsKiyoko Suizenji
This is one of Kiyoko Suizenji’s signature songs, loved for its lively rhythm and positive message.
Since its release in November 1968, it has been cherished across generations, being used as the entrance march for the National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament and in various commercials.
The lyrics express the importance of daily effort and a humble attitude.
For older adults, it’s a nostalgic tune they can hum along to.
It’s perfect for group sing-alongs while swinging your arms or moving your legs for a fun exercise.
Moving your body within a comfortable range helps refresh both mind and body.
Fox Dance
Let me introduce the Fox Dance that you can enjoy together with older adults.
It’s recommended because you can move your body while sitting in a chair.
After making a fox shape with your hands, use your arms and hands to dance.
The song has a quick tempo, but move within a comfortable range.
Once you get used to the moves, it could be fun to add some marching steps from the second round.
When it’s time to turn your neck, be careful to avoid falls.
The Fox Dance might be a great opportunity to spark new communication!
Apple SongMichiko Namiki
Even a casual listener who’s like, “Music? Hmm, I guess it’s okay,” will definitely know this song.
And of course, there can’t be a single senior who hasn’t heard it.
Ringo no Uta, the very first postwar hit in Japan, is a curious song: though the melody carries a hint of sadness, listening to it somehow fills you with strength.
Hachiro Sato’s lyrics are wonderful, too.
Its slightly relaxed tempo makes it easy for dance beginners to move along.
Whether you dance standing or seated, it’s a perfect recommendation for all seniors!
Hibari Misora MedleyHibari Misora
Hibari Misora, the original diva who kept singing throughout the tumultuous Showa era.
What’s your favorite Hibari song? There’s no way to pick just one—from “Kanashiki Kuchibue” and “Tokyo Kid,” which supported the hearts of Japanese people after the war, to “Ringo Oiwake” and “Omatsuri Mambo,” which captivated the early days of television, her peak-era hits like “Yawara” and “Kanashii Sake,” and her late masterpiece “Kawa no Nagare no Yō ni.” So how about moving your body to a Hibari medley instead? Video sites even have clips that teach simple choreography.
I hope you can spend a delightful time along with your memories!
Soran Bushi
Even the interjections of “hai-hai” that pop up mid-song make Soran Bushi fun.
Do you know which prefecture’s folk song it is? It actually originated in Hokkaido.
I’ve heard it began as a work song to synchronize movements during herring fishing.
It’s said to have four sections, such as “Boat-Rowing Ondo” and “Child-Drumming Ondo,” which makes it quite grand in scope.
In Hokkaido, some schools even dance Soran Bushi at their sports festivals, so it’s a perfect piece for exercise or dance! Try moving your body with choreography you create freely—whether in a Bon Odori style or an exercise style.