Customer Reviews

Simple Expressions: Creative & Therapeutic Arts for the Elderly in Long-Term Care Facilities

5 star:		(1)
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1 star:		(2)

 

 

As a professional in the career of art therapy, I bought Ms Parsons book expecting it to be insightful into the creative process of the elderly population. However, I was disappointed to discover that the book that claims it is about "creative and theraputic arts for the elderly," was simply a book outlining projects fit for children in preschool. I was looking for a book with theory and insight into the aging process and how it effects creativity. I was looking for views on how art can be theraputic with this population.... But all I got was steps to create egg shell pictures and marshmellow art!

Ms Parsons does make a slight effort to suggest the theraputic value of her activities by the addition of a cartoon (on several pages) stating, "Remember it is the process, not the product." While I agree with this statement in therapy and in my general view of the arts, I propose- "Ms.Parsons, in marketing your Book-it IS the PRODUCT, not the process that counts to your consumer."

I hope that no other consumer is mislead by the title of this book. A better title might be "Lists of Craft's and Other Indoor Activities." With this new title, consumers will be aware of what they are buying and and might offer more positive reviews.

I simply cannot recommend this book enough! I have read widely on this subject (I am head of geriatrics at Harvard University) and as for practical, instructive methods for the elderly, this is far-and-away the best in the field. I recommend this book to all who are interested in this area of geriatrics and for all those who care for, and work with the elderly. Keep up the good work! (good illustrations as well)

I purchased this book with the intention of adding to my library of art techniques used with the elderly in long term care. This book was a true disappointment. The techniques offered are simplistic beyond belief and completely underestimate the abilities of those living in long term care. If I offered these suggestions to the residents I work with they would be offended. Although the techniques I use are simple in structure and design they are not child-like as are those presented in this book.

Although I purchased this book used from a amazon user, I received the book very promptly. Thank you.