Recent Sausalito Research Shows Creative Writing Can Impede Dementia Symptoms
New research from Elder Manage Care in Sausalito, California, shows that crafting life stories can boost cognitive abilities of seniors suffering from a degenerative disease like Alzheimer's or dementia.
The prevalence of Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia continues to rise. 78 million elderly citizens in the US may be afflicted with Alzheimer's or dementia by 2030. Serving and caring these individuals will be a huge challenge, with costs expected to reach as high as $1.1 trillion per year.
In-home care for the elderly primarily focuses on helping them stay in familiar surroundings, which does nothing to manage their conditions. The majority of elder care is provided by family members, but it rarely provides effective assistance for managing conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer's.
Elder Manage Care is at the cutting edge of the transformation of in-home care services for the 21st century. It provides more than just basic home care, equipping families with the tools needed to combat and slow down memory loss illnesses and improve the quality of life of all involved.
With a focus on introducing new care paradigms, Elder Manage Care recognizes the pressing need for new approaches. The study focussed on the impact of combining patientcentred memory care with in-home daily living support to the benefit of all involved including stress relief for carers.
Ten individuals ranging from 45 to 96 years old, each with a unique combination of Alzheimer's, Dementia, Bi-Polar disorder, and other conditions were studied for 4-6 weeks. The goal was to assess the link between creativity, improved cognition and mental well-being.
Through careful observation of the mental impact of guided life story creative writing, conducted in seniors' homes with seniors, carers and Elder Manage Care experts, the team found a direct correlation between storytelling, boosted cognitive functions and improved patient quality of life.
Family caregivers for members with dementia and Alzheimer’s are aware of the devastating impact of such illnesses on a family. Another study outcome was a corresponding decrease in family and carer stress due to increased patient calmness and happiness levels.
"XXXX’s improvement in quality of life was clearly evident, she felt engaged and the collaboration kept her clear, sharp, happy and supported."
"XXXX’s depression has lifted for now and she seems to have a purpose in life again. The power of activating the mind is undeniable." "XXXX’s life took an immediate turn for the better. I can see she really flourishes with engagement."
Elder Manage Care advises that caregivers and elderly individuals be vigilant for warning signs of dementia, such as a decline in short-term memory, struggles with mental processing, and feelings of confusion.
While there is no cure for dementia or Alzheimer's disease, participating in mentally stimulating activities like documenting life experiences can help slow cognitive deterioration and enhance overall well-being.
Find Out More At https://www.eldermanagecare.com/ or call 630-638-1489