I took books, leaflets and copies of documents into the library to really delve into the research side of Arts Programming for the Eldery...I became absorbed and became more aware of the possibilities, ways of measuring such programs and how to plan and deliver such sessions...
Those who suffer from memory loss sometimes feel embarassed or afraid to be intellectual in front of loved ones or carers incase their cognitive abilities have decreased therefore providing a space where this can happen where there are NOT any correct answers enables creativity and a new type of self-expression.
This intellectual discussion is what is needed - and the paridigm of Dementia provides the general community with stereotypical ways of speaking to these individuals. Conversations such as about washing, getting dressed and their meal at lunch time. This needs to be pushed further but encouraging other forms of discussion and expression.
