The Effects of Dance Movement Therapy (DMT) on Dementia Symptoms

Abstract

Dementia is prevalent worldwide with over 55 million people with a current diagnosis of dementia. Dementia is defined as “the impaired ability to remember, think, or make decisions” and is not a normal part of the aging process. Treatment may include Dance Movement Therapy (DMT) which is “the psychotherapeutic use of movement to promote emotional, social, cognitive, and physical integration of the individual, for the purpose of improving health and well-being”. DMT improves cognitive ability, daily functioning, and psychosocial functioning if the patient is consistent with participation in the DMT. The purpose of this Evidenced-Based review is to examine the effects that DMT can have to benefit the elderly with dementia. The outcome of the research may help dementia patients improve their quality of life and contribute to the holistic care of the person. Nurses can use this information to promote and organize DMT interventions to help dementia patients improve function, have socialization, and cognition.