Journal of Alzheimers Disease & Parkinsonism
Open Access

Abstract

This paper will establish through an examination of neurobiology the how and why the creative art therapies most effectively be utilized in the treatment with those individuals afflicted with early to middle stages of dementia specifically Alzheimerâ��s disease which currently comprises approximately 80% of all dementiaâ��s. An in-depth overview on how Therapeutic Thematic Arts Programming�© (TTAP Method) stimulates both right and left brain functioning in the early stages to middle stages of Alzheimerâ��s disease will be analyzed from various clinical studies done in 2011, 2012 and 2013. This paper will cover the most recent and basic functional organization of the brain, neuroplasticity including neurons, neurotransmitters and areas of the brain involved in transforming perceptual inputs into physiological responses and behaviors. A review the innovative new methodology, the TTAP Method�© which utilizes person centered themes within the therapeutic process to engaged participants in a twelve step process that incorporates mediation and mindfulness, drawing, sculpture, movement, phototherapy and other forms of the creative arts into an ongoing enriching non-pharmaceutical approach for this special and rapidly growing population. This method substantiates how art therapy is quickly becoming a powerful window into brain functioning and self-discovery. Examples of current research studies utilizing this innovative method with the Alzheimerâ��s population will be presented from the United States and Finland.

Biography

Linda Levine Madori is a two time Fulbright Scholar, Professor, Author, Researcher and Trainer of a non-pharmaceutical approach utilizing all the creative arts for brain stimulation and enhancing socialization found in her first book titled; Therapeutic Thematic Arts Programming, in 2007 (TTAP Method.com). Her second book; Transcending Dementia through the TTAP Method; A New Psychology of Art, Brain and Cognition expands on the current significant research demonstrating cost effectiveness utilizing this innovative multimodal approach for the geriatric and Alzheimer’s population.

Email: llevinem@stac.edu