The Creative Dementia Practice Handbook

This handbook examines why, how and where creative arts can help meet the social, psychological and occupational needs of people living with dementia and their family carers.

Bringing together case studies of music, dance, poetry, digital arts and more, this book explores the core skills needed to co-create inspiring programmes in various settings. Foregrounding the lived experience of people living with dementia and their carers, each chapter showcases best practice, person-centred approaches, core learning points and online resources.

Full of expert information and clear practical guidance, this book is essential reading for students, early career and experienced practitioners seeking to improve health and wellbeing for people living with dementia.

Author Biography

Maria Pasiecznik Parsons is CEO of Creative Dementia Arts Network (CDAN). Maria is a professional social worker, academic and researcher, senior manager in dementia care and NHS and social care specialist consultant. Maria sits on the Boards of Frames of Mind and Dementia Community, has lived experience of being a family carer and lives in Bristol.

Richard Coaten PhD is a registered dance movement psychotherapist (RDMP) with the Association for Dance Movement Psychotherapy (UK) and is a national and international specialist in non-verbal, movement and dance-based practices with people living with dementia and their carers. Richard sits on the boards of CDAN and the Balbir Singh Dance Company and is a Churchill Fellow (2010). He lives in West Yorkshire.