Puppetry and
Dementia Project
‘Incredible that anything exists,
this hotch-potch world of
marvels and trivia;
and which is which?’
Kathleen Raine
‘As people [with dementia] lose the ability to name, to conceptualise what things are, they are forced into much more visual ways of thinking about the world.” 2004, Dr Bruce Miller
Our process:
With the funding from Puppet Animation Scotland we began by reading about Dementia and visiting the Dementia Services Development Centre, Stirling University (an excellent resource). We also shadowed the wonderful, inspirational Hearts & Minds practitioners, who work with people with dementia in creative, humorous and well considered ways.
We spent several months developing, planning and trying out various puppetry ideas to create activities that could be accessed by people who may have communication or memory difficulties. Activities ranged from sandpapering puppet parts; using vintage puppets; making puppets; using common themes; sing-a-long puppets and Edna-eski’s unique renditions.
In order to know if the activities were relevant, we ran programmes over several weeks in care settings for people with dementia. This was both a moving and inspiring experience, and our grateful thanks go to all the participants, staff and relatives who gave their consent. We also appreciate the support and interest shown by Alzheimer Scotland staff and service users.
A DVD of the project for participants and their families was created. Film-maker Andy Crossan captured some wonderful moments. For images of some of the activities click here.
Karrie is now working on a puppetry toolkit and booklet to accompany the DVD. The puppetry toolkit aims to help create an enjoyable shared connection through the magical world of puppetry to increase a sense of well-being. This is aimed at relatives, carers, people with dementia and puppeteers working in care settings.
We will keep you posted on developments.
Some comments:
‘The puppet-making brightened my life’ Participant
‘My mother got a huge amount from the puppets. We need more!’ Relative
‘We’ve not seen him being interested in anything since he moved in here, but he’s really taken to these puppets.’ Friends of participant
‘You brought us joy and laughter with the puppets’ staff
‘Mr X rarely speaks, so it was wonderful when his daughter said ‘What are these puppets my dad keeps talking about?’ Staff
‘I love it when the bairns come to play. Here they are! They can sing and dance really nice.’ Participant
‘Beautiful; cosy beautiful.’Participant
‘I’ve thoroughly enjoyed these puppet sessions. Thank you’ Participant
