A MacArthur Genius Grant recipientpioneers a radical change in how we interact with older loved ones, especiallythose experiencing dementia, as she introduces a proven method thatuses the creative arts to bring light and joy to the lives of elders.In Creative Care, Anne Basting lays the groundwork for awidespread transformation in our approach to elder care and uses compelling,touching stories to inspire and guide us all—family, friends, and healthprofessionals—in how to connect and interact with those living with dementia.A MacArthur Genius Grant recipient, Basting tells the storyof how she pioneered a radical change in how we interact with our older lovedones. Now used around the world, this proven method has brought light and joyto the lives of elders—and those who care for them. Here, for the first time,everyone can learn these methods. Early in her career, Basting noticed aproblem: today’s elderly—especially those experiencing dementia andAlzheimer’s— are often isolated in nursing homes or segregated in elder-caresettings, making the final years of life feel lonely and devoid of meaning. Toalleviate their sense of aloneness, Basting developed a radical approach thatcombines methods from the world of theater and improvisation with evidence-basedtherapies that connect people using their own creativity and imagination.Rooted in twenty-five years of research, these newtechniques draw on core creative exercises—such as “Yes, and . . .” and“Beautiful Questions.” This approach fosters storytelling and active listening,allowing elders to freely share ideas and stories without worrying aboutgetting the details “correct.” Basting’s research has shown that thesepractices stimulate the brain and awaken the imagination to add wonder and aweto patients’ daily lives—and provide them a means of connection, both with theworld and with those caring for them. Creative Care promises to bringlight and hope to a community that needs it most.
