Date Presented

Spring 5-18-2025

Document Type

Thesis

First Advisor

Dr. Rachel Willis

Second Advisor

Ms. Amanda Pribble

Third Advisor

Dr. Wendy Williamson

Abstract

Within the healthcare industry, the geriatric population holds a unique set of patient-care needs due to a myriad of physical and cognitive challenges that are not present in other subcategories of the population (Cremer et al., 2023). The presentation of these challenges can negatively impact a patient’s quality of life and their overall independence, which in turn decreases their overall quality of life (Cremer et al., 2023). One specific challenge healthcare providers must consider when caring for elderly patients is the reduced range of mobility typically associated with growing older (Machacova et al., 2015; Hartigan, 2007; Sinoff & Ore, 1997; Cremer et al., 2023; Lu et al., 2024). The reasons for decreased mobility include but are not limited to degenerative musculoskeletal conditions, inadequate nutritional intake, and other comorbidities (Cremer et al., 2023). According to peer-reviewed published resources, by engaging in frequent Dance Movement Therapy, geriatric patients experience increased function, mobility, balance, and coordination (Machacova et al., 2015; Woloszyn et al., 2021; Woloszyn et al., 2023; Britten et al., 2017; Lu et al., 2024). As patients gain a greater sense of independence, they are able to participate in their own self-care needs (Lu et al., 2024; Galhardas et al., 2022; Hartigan, 2007; Sinoff & Ore, 1997). This in turn improves the delivery of patient-centered care by nursing staff, as they are able to provide further specialized care that benefits the patient’s overall recovery and reduces the recovery period (Cremer et al., 2023; Padula et al., 2009). Despite the fact that Dance Movement Therapy is not a commonly discussed topic in nursing practice, current evidence demonstrates that incorporating Dance Movement Therapy into a patient’s daily care plan improves their overall physical condition and in turn, nursing care 2 (Machacova et al., 2015; Woloszyn et al., 2021; Woloszyn et al., 2023; Britten et al., 2017; Lu et al., 2024). This literature serves to argue this concept by synthesizing 26 peer-reviewed research articles and literature reviews published from 2009 to 2024, all of which highlight positive results towards the implementation of Dance Movement Therapy within patient care environments.

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