The AlzFighter Process: Category 6: Creativity

AlzFighter Process overview, Brain Protection, Creativity, Mental Health, Neuromotor exercises, Prevention, Stress Management

Category 6 of the AlzFighter process: Creativity

Category 6 of the AlzFighter process is the concept of the utilization of creative outlets and art therapy. It is important to start as early as possible to impact cognitive decline and improve the quality of life and overall well-being. Art therapy and other creative outlets have been shown to have positive impacts on the cognitive, emotional, and social functioning of persons with mild cognitive impairment and mild dementia (Frith & Loprinzi, 2020, p. 827) ;("impacts of visual art therapy for elderly with the neurocognitive disorder: A systematic review," 2022) ;(Emblad & Mukaetova-Ladinska, 2021, p. 364)

Types of Art/ Creativity/ Music therapy:

· Music reminiscence activity- The practice of looking at old photographs/events and listening to the music associated with the event(s) and explaining or sharing the events of the photo verbally. Note- be prepared for fun but also that this process may stir up emotions and you mentally go back in time.

· Cooking- a new dish or modifying an existing one but taking it to the next level by completing a full palate evaluation of the flavors, meaning moving the food around your mouth/ tongue to fully engage your culinary senses. This can be coupled with a tasting of new spices/ flavorings and music. This activity lends itself to lots of fun and social component as well.

· Creative art classes or hobbies such as painting, drawing, sculpture, sewing, photography, knitting, etc. Hobby stores often have social classes that have the added benefit of increasing social interactions while also engaging in creative activities.

· Music therapy – This is as simple as turning on some tunes. You can kick it up by listening to new genres and doing some reading or neuromotor exercises simultaneously.

· Musical instruments – For example, take up the guitar or a ukulele or flute. These instruments can often be found used or new at a minimal cost. The wonderful thing about playing musical instruments is that they usually require neuromotor coordination, i.e., strumming with one hand while moving the hand to various chord positions with the other hand. Couple this with singing, and you are a multi-tasking neuro-exercising machine!

· Make it a priority to get out - Take a daily walk outside and connect with nature. If possible, try new routes and locations.

Putting it into action:

Examples of action items that can enhance creativity and get your neurons firing:

1. I will consider one new creative outlet and work in it for 15 minutes daily.

2. I will take up the ukulele and practice for 15 minutes per day

3. For our weekly family dinner, I will make a game activity out of looking at some old photos, playing the music of the photo, and sharing the story involved.