Bringing Connection through Movement for Latinos with Dementia: A Grant Proposal Project

Abstract

There is an increased risk of being diagnosed with dementia with the increased life expectancy within the United States. While the growing Latino population in the United States, there is a need to provide culturally competent therapeutic services to those in need. The United Community Center has been serving the Latino population in Milwaukee, Wisconsin since 1970. As one of their services, they provide respite to caregivers of older adults with dementia through an adult day care. The purpose of this capstone project was to learn about the cultural influences and proposer methods for developing a dance/movement therapy program at the United Community Center: Adult Day Center. The literature review included the cultural trends in healthcare, caregiver education on dementia, different theoretical approaches and creative approaches to working in dementia care. The literature review helped formulate a need fore the population, develop methods and goals, and inform how to implement a new dance/movement therapy program. The aim of the program is to incorporate a psychosocial approach, educate caregivers on nonverbal communication, and help increase the sense of vitality in the lives of older adults with dementia. The grant proposal was tailored to fit the requirements for the Wisconsin Arts Board: Creative Communities grant.M.A., Dance/Movement Therapy and Counseling -- Drexel University, 201