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Expressive bodies: demented persons' communication in a dance therapy context
Krister Nyström1, Sonja Olin Lauritzen
1Stockholm University, Sweden.
Health (London, England : 1997)
|June 7, 2005
Summary
This study reveals that individuals with dementia possess rich communication abilities beyond typical limitations. Dance therapy highlights their varied use of verbal and non-verbal expressions, showcasing untapped potential.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Psychology
- Arts Therapy
Background:
- Dementia significantly impacts communication, often perceived solely through limitations.
- Traditional care settings may not fully capture the communicative capacity of individuals with dementia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the communication capabilities of elderly individuals with dementia.
- To investigate communication in non-traditional settings, specifically group dance therapy.
- To analyze how different expressive modes are utilized by participants.
Main Methods:
- Video analysis of group dance therapy sessions involving elderly individuals with dementia.
- Focus on the interplay of verbal and non-verbal communication methods.
- Examination of body movements, free dance, speech, and singing as expressive tools.
Main Results:
- Demented individuals demonstrated varied and rich communication through diverse expressive modes.
- Body movements were used to substitute or support verbal communication.
- Speech and singing were integrated with movement to convey thoughts, memories, and emotions.
Conclusions:
- Dance therapy provides a unique environment to observe enhanced communication in dementia.
- The study underscores the potential for multifaceted communication in individuals with dementia.
- Recognizing and utilizing diverse expressive modes can reveal deeper communicative abilities.