Dance/Movement Therapy and Sensory Stimulation: A Holistic Approach to Dementia Care

Nearly 135 million people worldwide will be afflicted with dementia by 2050 (Robinson et al., 2015). Dementia is a devastating and progressive illness that results in the loss of one’s sense of self and feelings such as frustration, depression, and anxiety. Dance/movement therapy (DMT) is a useful, non-pharmacologic method for the treatment of dementia, as this discipline enhances quality of life, may attenuate cognitive decline, and is cost-effective; DMT engages the sensory systems and stimulates physical, emotional, and cognitive functioning. This article affirms that sensory stimulation in DMT is a holistic, economical, and fruitful approach for dementia care. © 2016, American Dance Therapy Association.