The Art of Alzheimer’s: Finding Hope, Laughter, and Love with Marilyn Raichle
Have you been told to walk away from loved ones with Alzheimer’s, assuming there’s nothing left to connect with? The pain of feeling disconnected and hopeless in caregiving is all too real. But what if there was a way to find joy and connection in the midst of it all? Let’s uncover the power of creativity and joy in dementia care together.
In this episode, Marilyn Raichle, author of “Don’t Walk Away: A Care Partner’s Journey,” provides valuable insights on the power of art therapy for Alzheimer’s patients. Her personal experience caring for her mother showed her that her mother was still “in there,” and they built the loving relationship theyb were unable to create in the past.
Quote: People living with dementia have lives to live and gifts to give.
Key lessons
Art Reveals Hidden Abilities Discovering her mother’s artistic talents showed that people with dementia still have gifts to share.
Focus on What’s Present Instead of dwelling on what’s lost, concentrate on discovering and appreciating what remains in the person.
Take Time to Just Be Spending quality time together, even just five minutes doing something enjoyable, can build meaningful connections.
Listen More Than Talk Ask questions and truly listen to their answers, even if repeated, as they may reveal what’s important to them.
Find Joy in Small Moments Sharing laughter, songs, walks and simple pleasures can create happiness for both caregiver and care recipient.
Accept Their Reality Meet them where they are rather than trying to correct or change their perspective.
Love Can Still Grow Despite memory loss, the capacity for giving and receiving love remains intact.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Participate in the Expose Dementia Conference, The Art of the Matter, happening March 28th to 30th at the Maritime Conference Center in Linthicum, Maryland. Learn more about the intersection of art and dementia care.
Tune in to Podcasthon starting on March 15th and listen to the AlzAuthors episode featuring a discussion on the long-term impact of caregiving.
After the Podcast
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About the Podcast
AlzAuthors is the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer’s and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others.
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Ideas and opinions expressed in this podcast belong to the speakers and not AlzAuthors. Always consult your healthcare provider and legal and financial consultants for advice on any of the topics covered here.
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