Expressive Arts With Elders

This engaging and practical book shows how older people who are disoriented or depressed by the process of ageing can experience a renewed sense of connectedness and life-affirmation through the expressive arts and arts therapies. The contributors combine an analysis of theoretical considerations around themes of aging, society and dementia. This engaging and practical book shows how older people who are disoriented or depressed or socially excluded by the process of ageing can experience a renewed sense of connectedness and life-affirmation through the expressive arts and arts therapies.The contributors combine a thought-provoking analysis of theoretical considerations around the themes of aging, society and dementia with practical applications in a diverse range of creative arts including drama, music, art, dance and creative writing. They also include descriptions of innovative inter-generational and cross-cultural projects.Professionals working with older people in a range of settings including residential homes, community centres and psychiatric care will find this book to be an indispensable guide to their practice.Review of the first edition;This book is comprehensive and program-oriented and will be of immeasurable help to professionals in the field of ageing. It is a lucid guide of successful and creative artistic programs which points the way to new dimensions in the field.'- Jacqueline T. Sunderland, former president of the National Center on Arts and Ageing