Written by a daughter, Lydia Burdick, for her mother who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, these special books are Alzheimer’s activities that offer the perfect way for family and friends to visit with a loved with, and for caregivers to provide a more personal touch.
Two-Lap Books are interactive and fit comfortably over two laps. Charmingly illustrated by Jane Freeman. the helpful Conversation Prompts spark conversation and reminiscence on each page. Additionally, Happy New Year to You! has “old-time” sample songs for reading partners to sing together.
Reading Two-Lap Books together is an instant activity — no planning or preparation is required. Open to a favorite illustration, read from start to finish, or select just a page or two to spark an exchange. Tips on how to promote engagement with the book are provided รณ or just use your own creativity! Here is a natural and unlimited opportunity to rebuild connections for the person with dementia, stroke, multiple sclerosis, and related disorders.
Researchers have found in a number of studies that reading can improve a patient’s quality of life. The meanings of written sentences can be understood by — and prompt cogent responses from — even those who have difficulty handling verbal exchanges.
Caregivers may be surprised to learn that reading ability is not always destroyed by Alzheimer’s. “All of my research demonstrates that people who were literate maintain their ability to read until the end stages of dementia,” said Michelle S. Bourgeois, a professor of speech and hearing science at Ohio State University.
At the earlier stages of Alzheimer’s disease, many literate patients may still enjoy reading books themselves, said Dr. Barry Reisberg, a professor of psychiatry and director of the Fisher Alzheimer’s program at New York University. Large-type reading materials can be used to assist later-stage Alzheimer’s patients to continue reading.
Books published for children and young adults may be easy to read, but they can be off-putting for people with Alzheimer’s. “If they see something as being childish, you have lost them,” Dr. Reisberg said.
The illustrations in Ms. Burdick’s books are based on realistic watercolors of white-haired men and women and their families, created by artist Jane Freeman, a friend of Ms. Burdick. The messages are clear and upbeat. “In November, I am thankful for so many things,” she writes. “In December, I celebrate the holidays. Let’s sing a song.”
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