Date of Award
Spring 5-16-2020
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
MA - Master of Arts
Department
Expressive Therapies
Advisor
Laura Wood
Abstract
The purpose of this thesis is to examine the use of Dance/movement therapy (D/MT) with a focus on sensory stimulation among individuals living with dementia to promote a higher level of engagement, connection, and reminiscence. This thesis will provide a literature review on the challenges that individuals living with dementia experience and the importance of a person-centered approach to care that is grounded in relationship (Newman-Bluestein & Chang, 2017). Additionally, the role that Dance/movement therapy plays among people with dementia and the benefits of sensory stimulation within this population are also included. Finally, a Dance/movement therapy intervention that was implemented at an affordable housing community in the Boston area among a diverse, low-income group of older adults with mild to severe dementia in February and March 2020 will be presented. A Chacian structure was implemented with a focus on touch through the use of props, hand holding, and self-massage, as well as stimulation through music, encouraging reminiscence. The observations indicated valuable benefits for group participants, confirming a need for further research to be conducted on the benefits of D/MT among this specific population.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Recommended Citation
Barnes, Anna J., "Creating Connection through Dance/Movement Therapy among Older Adults with Dementia: Development of a Method" (2020). Expressive Therapies Capstone Theses. 305.
https://digitalcommons.lesley.edu/expressive_theses/305
Rights
The author owns the copyright to this work.
