Creative Care: A Revolutionary Approach to Dementia and Elder Care

In Creative Care, Anne Basting lays the groundwork for a
widespread transformation in our approach to elder care and uses compelling,
touching stories to inspire and guide us all—family, friends, and health
professionals—in how to connect and interact with those living with dementia.

A MacArthur Genius Grant recipient, Basting tells the story
of how she pioneered a radical change in how we interact with our older loved
ones. Now used around the world, this proven method has brought light and joy
to 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 a
problem: today’s elderly—especially those experiencing dementia and
Alzheimer’s— are often isolated in nursing homes or segregated in elder-care
settings, making the final years of life feel lonely and devoid of meaning. To
alleviate their sense of aloneness, Basting developed a radical approach that
combines methods from the world of theater and improvisation with evidence-based
therapies that connect people using their own creativity and imagination.

Rooted in twenty-five years of research, these new
techniques 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 about
getting the details “correct.” Basting’s research has shown that these
practices stimulate the brain and awaken the imagination to add wonder and awe
to patients’ daily lives—and provide them a means of connection, both with the
world and with those caring for them. Creative Care promises to bring
light and hope to a community that needs it most.