Transcending Dementia through the TTAP Method

Here is a great dementia resource for caregivers and healthcare professionals,

You will love the Amazon Kindle Fire

Here is information on being the best caregiver you can be

Here is a way for nurses administrators, social workers and other health care professionals to get an easyceu or two

Follow Alzheimers1 on twitter

The brain-stimulating approach known as Therapeutic Thematic Arts Programming (TTAP) has a proven record of improving the lives of people with dementia by increasing their engagement and functioning. In Transcending Dementia through the TTAP Method: A New Psychology of Art, the Brain, and Cognition you now have all the tools and instructions for putting this innovative and life-affirming approach to work in your own care setting. You too can successfully invigorate the minds and hearts of people living with this challenging cognitive disease.

Participation in the creative arts has been shown to promote cell growth that enhances the brain’s ability to learn and recall new information, create new ideas, and make new connections. Using 12 separate forms of creative expression — ranging from sculpture and painting to physical movement and mental imagery — TTAP builds on themes in an integrative way that helps each individual with dementia draw upon memories, feelings, and intellectual reserves that promote positive self-regard and active social participation. Sample activity protocols guide you through the process of engagement to help you quickly master the steps.

Activities using the TTAP method can provide

significant stimulation and integration of multiple brain regions
enjoyment, engagement, creativity, relaxation, and a sense of purpose for people with even advanced dementia
an easy-to-follow framework that allows infinite variations on themes and personal interests
complete documentation for tracking and evaluation
opportunities for one-on-one or group programming
By blending the principles of art and therapeutic recreation with the latest findings in brain research, Transforming Dementia through Therapeutic Thematic Arts Programming presents an exciting new psychological taxonomy that captures the dynamic interplay between brain functioning and expressive and emotional stimulation.