Dance therapy, also known as dance/movement therapy (DMT), is gaining momentum as a meaningful and enjoyable intervention in adult day care programs. At Direct Care Training & Resource Center, Inc., we champion creative solutions that nurture the body and mind—and dance therapy stands out as one of the most engaging.
Whether your adult day care serves older adults, those with traumatic brain injuries, or individuals with developmental disabilities, dance therapy offers benefits like improved mobility, enhanced mood, and stronger social connections. The key lies in safe, structured implementation.
🩰 Start with Safety
Before beginning a dance therapy initiative, assess your participants’ physical and cognitive abilities. Collaborate with physical or occupational therapists to create movement modifications for those with mobility aids or balance issues. Sessions should be held in wide, clutter-free areas with sturdy chairs available for seated dance options.
Avoid overly fast or complex routines. Choose slow-to-moderate tempos and maintain clear instructions throughout. Staff should remain close for physical support and motivation, creating an environment of both safety and enthusiasm.
🎶 Curate Enjoyable, Culturally Familiar Music
Music selection should reflect the cultural backgrounds and personal tastes of your participants. From Motown to Latin ballads or calming instrumental tunes, music should energize but not overstimulate.
Consider themed dance days or rotating genres weekly to keep participants engaged and curious. This approach enhances memory stimulation and fosters a deeper connection to the activity.
🤝 Make It Social and Person-Centered
Group dancing—whether in circles, lines, or even hand movements while seated—fosters a shared experience that improves emotional well-being. Encourage participants to suggest songs or create dance names for familiar movements. This boosts a sense of ownership and fun.
Instructors trained in both dance and caregiving or behavioral health can further personalize the experience, ensuring those with anxiety, cognitive decline, or low motivation feel seen and supported.
🌟 Our Closing Thought…
At www.adultdaycaretraining.com and www.directcaretraining.com, we encourage adult day care providers to embrace the power of expressive therapies like dance. With the right planning, dance therapy becomes more than movement—it becomes a tool for healing, joy, and community.
Another Blog Post by Direct Care Training & Resource Center, Inc. Photos used are designed to complement the written content. They do not imply a relationship with or endorsement by any individual nor entity and may belong to their respective copyright holders.
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