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Background: The global rise in the 60+ population (WHO, 2015; WHO, 2024) increases demands on long-term caregivers (LTC), who often experience chronic stress and reduced well-being. International guidelines call for supportive training to enhance resilience (Lindt et al., 2020; Lam et al., 2022). DanceCare Erasmus+ addresses this by integrating Dance Movement Therapy (DMT) with Wise Motion (WM), a neuroscience-based conscious movement method.

Objectives: The project aims to:

1. design and evaluate an embodied training program using DMT and WM;
2. disseminate the curriculum through DMT training institutions; and
3. support its adoption by elderly-care organizations.

Methods: A mixed-method study design was developed, combining quantitative pre-post measures (Zarit Burden Interview; Caregiver Burden Inventory: Novak & Guest, 1989; Beck Depression Inventory; quality-of-life questionnaire) with qualitative interviews, focus groups, researcher notes and embodiment-informed, art-based methods (Tantia, 2021; Leavy, 2020). The training has been implemented in Spain, Italy and Greece.

Results: Data analysis is ongoing and final results will be presented at the conference. Preliminary insights include needs analyses from caregivers and DMT experts, which guided program development. Focus groups emphasized safe spaces, metaphorical language and transitional objects. DMT experts have been trained to deliver the program, and blended-learning materials, including short videos, have been produced. Our hypothesis is that repeated movement-based encounters and art-based processes enhance stress regulation, body awareness and relational presence.

Conclusion: Early project development indicates strong potential for embodied, neuroscience-informed approaches to support LTC caregivers. Final outcomes (2026) aim to inform sustainable psychosomatic and educational practices in elder-care contexts.