Documentary by NHK (Japanese Public Broadcasting) that looks at the use of art as a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease.

 Alzheimer’sNotes.com
When I saw these dolls, they reminded me of a family and stories you could relate with Alzheimer’s patients.  Perhaps the stories would be of their memories and family members.  Possibly they would be fantasy. 
These, or similar dolls, could be a springboard for communication.  At least if the patients are communicating, whether in the present, fantasy or yesterday’s world, they retain something of themselves.  A bit of their personality comes through, perhaps a glimpse of the former man or woman.
“Look at her.  She’s playing with dolls.  How silly,” Mother remarked, in the earlier days when she stayed at a nusing home during the day …read more

Art Therapy is a way of letting people express themselves. Using paint, pen, charcoal, and other mediums, they are able to unleash hidden memories. No one knows for sure how art therapy works, but somehow the simple act of painting or drawing brings out memories in people suffering from brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s Disease. It also seems to slow down the heart rate and breathing and decrease blood pressure. So it’s not surprising that the Alzheimer’s Association promotes ‘ Memories in the Making Arts Program’. This program originated in Orange County, California in 1988 and has been adopted by …read more

If you search on Amazon.com for books dealing Alzheimer’s Disease, you get over 19,000 responses. The books cover topics such as what is it, how to cope, advice for caregivers, etc. But there are very few books out there for people with advanced Alzheimer’s Disease. It is assumed that as the disease advances, the ability to read and recognize decreases. But more and more experts believe that art can have positive effects on damaged brains. Pictures to Share, a British non-profit publishing company, provides large format photo books featuring images collected from artists and galleries. Each 32 page book …read more