Dramatherapy in a nursing home: Exploring resonances between sensory experience and embodied interaction in people with dementia through the use of fairy tales

Abstract

This small-scale research study explores resonances engendered by sensory experience in people with dementia and discusses the key role interaction plays in their care. It was inspired by a spontaneous interaction from a client with severe dementia. Parlett and Deardon’s qualitative methodology of illuminative evaluation was employed within a structure delineated by Meekums and Payne and Grainger with the aim of developing understanding of the use of Dramatherapy in this context. The Dramatherapist assumed the role of practitioner-researcher within a person-centred paradigm. An eclectic redevelopmental model of Dramatherapy using fairy tales and song was underpinned by Jennings’s model of embodiment, projection and role (EPR) with the aim of supporting the well-being of the clients through creating interactive opportunities. Key findings showed that Dramatherapy methods enabled interaction contained in a model of practice that held meaning for the clients. Sensory experiences brought aspects of self into embodied being and a more positive state was noted after the sessions by the carers which, in some, had a lasting effect. Data were gathered from fieldwork during 12 session of 60 minutes held over 6 months with three residents at any one time and included verbal feedback from the clients, verbal and written feedback from the nursing home and questionnaires to participants attending a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) day where the Dramatherapist presented preliminary findings. The study shows there is room for this theme to be developed in Dramatherapy practice and research with this marginalised population.