Things To Do Together

Chapter 4: Things To Do Together

Overview:

• Reasons are given as to why doing simple things together are such a necessity
• Lists of ways to ensure the other persons pleasure are provided
• The importance of doing everyday pleasures is examined
• Provides lists of things to do for special occasions and celebrations
• Personal parts of stories from the author’s own experiences of doing things together with her mother who had Alzheimer’s

Description:

This chapter suggests some things that family members/carers can do together with the person with Alzheimer’s. The emphasis is on simple, everyday activities- none of them requires any special effort or expense.

Topics:

• The object of doing things together
  • Pleasure, participation, and making them feel valued
  • Ensuring the other person’s pleasure
  • Consider their tastes and abilities
  • Take no for an answer, let them set the pace, and try anything once
• Everyday pleasures
  • The pleasure of simply doing nothing
  • Grooming
  • Participating in everyday domestic tasks
  • The ‘cuppa’ and other rituals
  • Everyday amusements and outings
• Treats, special occasions and celebrations

Jane Crisp

Dr Jane Crisp has retired recently as a lecturer in communication, media studies and women’s studies at Griffith University in Brisbane, Australia. She now holds an honorary position there as Adjunct Senior Lecturer. When Jane’s mother, who lived in New Zealand, was diagnosed with dementia Jane found her professional studies of great help in her efforts to keep in touch. Since 1990 Jane has been studying the language of people who are dementing and working out strategies for making sense of the way they speak. She has given talks on this work, and had articles published, both in Australia and overseas. 

Jane has spent much time in France, meeting and exchanging ideas with researchers and carers involved with people who are dementing, and visiting specialised care units. She is married, with a son and a brand new granddaughter.

Professional Reviews: