Living well with dementia
Dementia, including Alzheimer's disease can be overwhelming for both the people who have it and their caregivers and families. However, with adequate care and support, their quality of life can be improved.
The photos in this gallery are all courtesy of Professor Cathy Greenblat, taken within the context of a cross-cultural photographic project on ageing, dementia, and end of life care. This photo gallery uses evocative images to show that people with dementia who are treated as whole human beings in positive environments can still give and receive love, and share moments of hearty laughter.
Marie-Therèse and Féderica painting a kite, Monaco
Despite a ninety-year-plus age difference, Marie-Therèse and Féderica have a good time painting a kite together. Giving children understandable information about Alzheimer’s can help them cope with the disease in their family.
Elsie and Jody in a LaughterYoga session, USA
LaughterYoga shows how a combination of physical exercises, breathing exercises, and minimal verbal communication can indeed represent a moment of fun for people affected by Alzheimer’s.
Mr. Noori, Bangalore Centre, India
Formerly a senior manager at a major industrial company, 80 year old Mr. Noori was saddened to realize that he had less ability to engage in activities that were pleasurable only a short time ago.
Big hug, Japan
When an aide in a Kyoto group home embraced this resident, everyone smiled. Gerontologist Hidetoshi Endo explains: “Spiritual care at home and in residential facilities is widespread in Japan, offered by care partners with love and smiles."
Elsa, Dominican Republic
Elsa and one of her 10 siblings were diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Elsa left school after 4th grade and stayed home helping her mother, not dating and never marrying.
Liliane sharing a photograph of her grandson, France
For a reminiscence therapy session in Nice, participants were urged to bring a photo or other item of importance to them.