Dance movement therapy with the elderly: An international Internet-based survey undertaken with practitioners

Abstract

The over 65 age group is constantly increasing in size. Resource-oriented treatment approaches such as dance movement therapy (DMT) are becoming more important as they preserve the dignity of the elderly, respect their individual needs and improve social participation. An international internet-based survey was sent to 683 DMT colleagues, of which 113 practitioners from Austria, Germany and Switzerland responded to the following questions: To what extent can older people benefit through DMT? What themes emerge in the sessions? Which therapeutic interventions are applied? What are the recommendations with regard to working conditions and the strengths and coping strategies of therapists? The qualitative data analysis reveals that practitioners agree that DMT improves the quality of life of elderly people, fosters maintenance of their relationships and expands their resources and participation in activities. The results assist us in formulating specific intervention recommendations.

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