Press Reviews

• Journal of Mental Health

  This is an engaging and informative book intended to be used as a guide to the value and potential of the creative arts as therapy in dementia care... Using case studies to inform along with activities to put method into practice, this book would be suitable for anyone wishing to gain constructive advice on a creative approach to dementia care.

• The Canadian Art Therapy Association

  The Creative Arts in Dementia Care demonstrates again and again through the use of case studies and personal experiences of the authors that by incorporating creative arts and the meditative body into one's approach with individuals with dementia, both the individual and the caregiver, are powerfully linked together through the shared sensory experiences. This book offers a unique approach which demonstrates the use of an artistic person-centred approach for working with individuals with dementia to ensure that they are not left in isolation but are allowed to communicate in an unique alternate method. Jill Hayes and Sarah Povey also touch on an often forgotten aspect of the importance of self-care for all care providers.

• Human Givens Journal

  This easy-to-read book will provide a valuable resource for anyone involved in the care of someone with dementia, be it in residential care, hospital, day centre or at home, illustrating an effective way of caring and enriching the life of a whole human being.

• Ross Prior, Principal Editor, Journal of Applied Arts and Health

  An inspiring and fresh new look at the power of creativity and how the creative arts are of distinct value within dementia care. This book is a philosophy and practical guide which is accessible to both the student therapist and the experienced practitioner alike. Jill Hayes reminds us that "openness to others" is vital in caring for the whole human being - not just the physical body. This book makes a compelling and heartfelt case for the contribution of creative or expressive arts to the wellbeing of individuals with dementia and those around them.

• David Sheard, Director, Dementia Care Matters, and Visiting Senior Fellow, Division of Health and Social Care, University of Surrey

  This is a "work of the heart". It is a deep, profound and clear demonstration of why "Feelings Matter Most" in dementia care. Using dance, song and storytelling, the authors show you how to connect with the real essence of people. Taking hold of your hand this book will free your own creativity giving you lots of practical ideas. I strongly recommend this, it is inspiring.

• Dalia Gottlieb-Tanaka, PhD, Chair, The Society for the Arts in Dementia Care

  A great contribution to the growing literature, which emphasizes that the creative arts are essential in maintaining and improving the quality of life, in particular, of people with dementia... Very enjoyable and informative reading.

• Barbara Hall, Independent Consultant.

  This is an inspiring book that delivers what it says and very much more. The "very much more" is the capacity of the authors, through their work with people with dementia, to touch those parts of the person buried and lost deeply within. This is also true for the reader. The book prompts questions about our emotional awareness, it gently yet profoundly challenges the ways in which we currently interact and connect with those we care for and support and helps us practically to find ways to be responsive to the emotional life of another. Highly recommended for staff and managers working in residential and day care settings, for students in social care and social work working with older people and also for family members of those with dementia.

• Anna Barzotti, Arts and Health Coordinator, West Sussex Arts and Health Network

  This book is a must for anyone involved with dementia care be they artists, health professionals or carers. It gives valuable insight into the ways in which the arts can engage people afflicted with this frightening disease and bring them, momentarily at least, back in touch with themselves and their loved ones.