Abstract
Amanda Alders Pike, Improving memory through creativity. Jessica Kingsley Publishers: London, UK, 2014; 192 pp. ISBN 978-1-84905953-4, £33.95 (pbk)
Improving Memory through Creativity by Amanda Alders Pike provides an excellent overview of creative program development and facilitation with older adults. The text also offers a valuable resource for anyone working in a recreational, creative, mental health or therapeutic role in long-term care and hospital continuing care sectors, community health and recreation centres as well as adult day programs. This book covers all of the most important and often overlooked elements of creative programming for older adults, especially those experiencing mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The author outlines art as a culturally inclusive, universal communication tool, one which allows for the social connection, creative expression, opportunity for success and cognitive training essential to the well-being of older adults.
Each chapter is very well thought out, beginning with the basics of memory loss and benefits of self-expression through creativity in older adults, working through the neurological effects of both memory loss and creative expression, as well as the impact of happiness on the brain. ‘Happiness’ is a term used widely throughout the book as a highly under-recognised, yet primary element in overall health, as well as a key component in the goals of social creative programs for older adults.
Also well covered in Improving Memory through Creativity are the impact of culture on the practice of creative programming with older adults, elements of communication in art and an in-depth look at cognitive impairment. The final chapters provide excellent examples of successful program formats, length and directives, as well as additional resources and an overview of the scope of professional practice.
At the beginning of each chapter, Alders Pike states the key concept of the chapter, accompanied by a word bank, making quick referencing very convenient. Each chapter is also completed with a summary. The publication features many relevant figures and tables, further illustrating the key concepts and it closes with a quiz for the reader. I found the quiz to be a great way to test the knowledge I had gained in reading the publication, and to see the areas I may need to revisit or consult additional resources to gain a stronger understanding.
Although Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia are discussed, the impression I have is that this publication is most suitable for those who work with individuals in the older adult population, focusing on delaying memory loss or who may be experiencing MCI. An additional chapter on the benefits and specifics of creative programming with those living in the more advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease and other form of dementia would be a very interesting inclusion, as the approach and the extent of the benefits of creative programming for that population may vary slightly.
Many different creative professionals are addressed in Improving Memory through Creativity, which demonstrates the broad continuum of creative program options available. It may be of benefit, for anyone reading this publication who is not a creative professional, to provide a brief outline of each area of expertise and their scope, as there are quite vast differences in the educational requirements and skill sets of various creative professionals.
Alders Pike recognises that the field of creative programming is becoming an overlap of creativity amongst community care and mental health professionals. The author strongly promotes professional collaboration in order to provide those participating in the creative program with the relevant and appropriate care possible. This is a very logical, inclusive and responsible approach to this overlap.
I would be pleased to see a follow-up publication drawing on Alders Pike’s extensive experience, expanding upon successful directives and program examples for the older adult population. Her knowledge and approach combined are a resource from which any creative professional could benefit.
I recommend Improving Memory through Creativity for anyone working in a creative capacity with older adults. It is written from a clinical experience and evidence-based perspective, yet is easily readable and understandable. Alders Pike has created a go-to resource that I am thrilled to have in my library and will consult and recommend regularly.