Improving Memory Through Creativity: A Professional's Guide to Culturally Sensitive Cognitive Training with Older Adults

Creativity stimulates older adults both mentally and emotionally, regardless of their cultural background, which can have numerous cognitive and social benefits. This guidebook outlines culturally competent strategies, which are essential for effective clinical work in a world with an increasing number of older adults and incidences of Alzheimer's Disease. Throughout the text, professionals are shown how to structure sessions and use artistic creativity to improve memory, mood and socialization. Everything from how to introduce art materials and techniques, to enhancing cross-cultural interaction is outlined in detail. Additionally, graphs, charts, and tables show how artistic creativity can parallel cognitive training to provide optimal benefits to a wide audience of older adults. Accompanied by online material for use in sessions and workshops, this book is a vital resource for such professionals as art therapists, social workers, gerontologists, counsellors and more.

Amanda Alders Pike has taught internationally on themes related to creative art therapies. She has a Master's degree in Creative Arts Therapy from Nazareth College and a Ph.D. specialising in Art Therapy from Florida State University. Her doctoral research evaluated art therapy as a means of cognitive training and the results demonstrated enhanced cognitive performance among culturally diverse older adults. Currently, Amanda is serving as President of the Florida Art Therapy Association and works as a registered art therapist. She lives in Miami, Florida where she applies her work with clients across the life-span. In addition to clinical work, Amanda provides outcome study consultations and welcomes opportunities for collaboration.