Kaplan Estates Roberta Russell Self-Proclaimed Queen of The Sock Hop

It’s not surprising to see Kaplan Estates resident Roberta Russell dancing. In fact, she’s passionate about dancing as a form of daily exercise.

“I’ve been dancing my entire life, “ exclaimed Roberta. “I started tap dancing when I was five and haven’t looked back since.” In high school and college Roberta was a fixture at local nightclubs where she could dance the night away. She learned all the popular dances like the Jitterbug, Cha Cha and the Merengue. “I drew the line at slow dancing,” remarked Roberta. “Absolutely no waltzes. They’re too slow and too boring,” she said with a laugh.

Looking a very youthful 79, Roberta (or Berta as she likes to be called) was born in Everett, grew up in Lynn, and has resided in Peabody for over 40 years. She is still close friends with two “gals” she met when they were four years old. Roberta owned Sanibelle’s boutique in Peabody for over 10 years. Now she lives at Kaplan Estate Assisted Living and has been instrumental in motivating the residents to dance on a daily basis. Teaming up with Antonio Alvarez, director of community relations director at Kaplan Estates, the two recently orchestrated a very successful “Sock Hop” for the residents and staff.

“ It was so sweet,” remarked Alvarez. “Roberta wanted to make sure everyone was enjoying the dance because she said the event was more for the residents than for her.” Roberta explained further. “My goal was to get everyone up and dancing, even the residents in wheelchairs. I held on to them for dear life and vice versa, but we did it!”

At the Sock Hop, Roberta played the music on her cherished phonograph that she bought at Bed, Bath & Beyond for $500 in the mid 1980’s. “That was a lot of money at the time,” said Roberta. “But it was definitely a good investment. I still play it every single day!”

“Roberta is essentially the embodiment of ‘seize the day’ and aging gracefully,” said Antonio. “She has more energy and positivity than I do, and I’m 34!”

In addition to dancing as the best form of exercise, Roberta noted that it also elevates your mood. “I like to see people happy,” stated Roberta. “That’s why I like to encourage people to dance. Dancing makes you happy.” Her preferred dance music? “I enjoy any dance that’s got soul to it,” said Roberta. “From Rock ‘n Roll to Elvis Presley to Hip Hop. As for her most loved song, she quickly chose Irving Berlin’s The Man I Love. “Both my mother and I adored that song.”

When asked about her favorite dance, Roberta didn’t even hesitate. “I love The Twist,” she said enthusiastically, adding that “I’m actually pretty good.” From the cheers and clapping after her performance, it seems that that the residents and staff at Kaplan Estates wholeheartedly agree!

About Kaplan Estates Assisted Living and Chelsea Jewish Lifecare

Chelsea Jewish Lifecare is redefining senior care and re-envisioning what life should be like for those living with disabling conditions. The eldercare community includes a wide array of skilled and short-term rehab residences, ALS, MS and ventilator dependent specialized care residences, traditional and specialized assisted living options, memory care, independent living, adult day health, and homecare and hospice agencies that deliver customized and compassionate care.