Recent Sausalito Research Shows Creative Writing Can Impede Dementia Symptoms

by PRC Agency PR

New research from Elder Manage Care in Sausalito, California, (a mental health and home care combined solution provider in the home health and senior care industry) shows that crafting life stories can boost cognitive abilities of seniors suffering from a degenerative disease like Alzheimer's or dementia.

Enhancing memory functions to stave off cognitive decline is achieved by combining creative writing with home self-care. Learn more at https://www.eldermanagecare.com .

The research is ongoing and based on collaboration with elderly patients, their family members and carers. By bringing people together, the study uncovers new ways to keep ageing minds sharp, to the benefit of all involved.

Through this new research, the team demonstrates that even those with mild dementia and Alzheimer's can strengthen memory functions and enhance overall well-being by engaging in creative writing to keep senior citizens' brains sharp and slow down mental deterioration.

The prevalence of Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia continues to rise. A recent report projects that 78 million elderly citizens in the US may be afflicted with Alzheimer's or dementia by 2030. Serving and caring for these individuals represents a significant societal and economic challenge, with costs expected to reach as high as $1.1 trillion per year.

In-home care for the elderly primarily focuses on helping them stay in familiar surroundings, which does nothing to manage their conditions. The majority of elder care is provided by family members but rarely provides effective assistance for managing conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer's.

With a focus on introducing new care paradigms, Elder Manage Care recognizes the pressing need for new approaches. Its service combines patient-centred memory care with in-home daily living support, to the benefit of all involved - including relief for carers.

Elder Manage Care is at the cutting edge of the transformation of in-home care services for the 21st century. Family caregivers for members with dementia and Alzheimer’s are aware of the devastating impact of such illnesses on a family. Elder Manage Care provides more than just basic home care, equipping families with the tools needed to combat and slow down these devastating illnesses and improve the quality of life of all involved.

Ten individuals ranging from 45 to 96 years old, each with a unique combination of Alzheimer's, Dementia, Bi-Polar disorder, and other conditions were studied for 6 weeks. The goal was to assess the link between creativity, improved cognition and mental well-being.

Through careful observation of the mental impact of guided life story creative writing, conducted in seniors' homes with seniors, carers and Elder Manage Care experts, the team found a direct correlation between storytelling, boosted cognitive functions, improved patient quality of life and a less stressful care regime for family members, friends and carers.

Insightful comments from family members included:-

"XXXX’s improvement in quality of life was clearly evident, she felt engaged and the collaboration kept her clear, sharp, happy and supported."

"XXXX’s depression has lifted for now and she seems to have a purpose in life again. The power of activating the mind is undeniable."

"XXXX’s life took an immediate turn for the better. I can see she really flourishes with engagement."

Elder Manage Care advises that caregivers and elderly individuals be vigilant for warning signs of dementia, such as a decline in short-term memory, struggles with mental processing, and feelings of confusion.

While there is no cure for dementia or Alzheimer's disease, participating in mentally stimulating activities like documenting life experiences can help slow cognitive deterioration and enhance overall well-being.

Elder Manage Care's unique method of blending traditional home care with personalized memory care offers a well-rounded approach to caring for the mind and body, allowing seniors to maintain their independence and savor a fuller life for years to come.

About Elder Manage Care

Elder Manage Care provides specialized home and memory care services for residents in both the vibrant cities of San Francisco Bay and Chicago. With a focus on preserving the mental well-being of seniors, especially those with dementia, Elder Manage Care is dedicated to helping clients age gracefully in their own homes.

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