We at Creative Story Project have identified the importance of story and its various aspects, 
focusing on its relevance to life issues and its power as an agent of change. 
Summer time is for fun -- but also for more care!

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     The weather is beautiful again. We all want to be outside. That includes those with cognitive issues as well. But we need to take extra care at this time.
     Wandering is a risk associated with Alzheimer’s/dementia but also with such conditions as autism spectrum disorder or Down Syndrome. But in the summer, you want to be outside as much as possible. Maybe you want to work in the garden, go for a nice walk, or just sit on the deck and relax. But you worry that your loved one isn’t in your sight every minute. Here are just a few precautions to take.
  • Make sure your loved one always carries ID. It won’t stop wandering but it will help get them back to you should they stray.
  • Know your neighbors. Introduce yourself and your loved one to the neighbors so they get to know them and aware of their particular condition. Also make sure the neighbors know how to get in touch with you quickly if needed.
  • Put up a fence. Although this is expensive, a sturdy fence with secure gates can prevent wandering while enabling both you and them with a time in the fresh air.
  • Increase physical activity. A supervised walk can get in a “fix” for activity while tiring your wanderer. This is particularly good before bedtime to reduce nighttime agitation.
  • Of course, maintain a secure home. Install locks on doors and windows that can’t be opened or reached easily. A simple solution can sometimes be bells on doorknobs. Sometimes motion detectors are helpful as well. But remember, all the locks and security systems in the world won’t work if you don’t maintain or set them.
Even the best and most dedicated caregiver can’t fully prevent wandering. Perhaps some of these tips will create an atmosphere for you that is less anxious and more confident.     
Our interactive application of creative story is designed primarily to assist those with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia, but it also serves others with learning challenges or cognitive issues. We also are able to work with at-risk youth or adults with learning challenges. 

Contact us to book a program or for additional information.

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The Santa Project, is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit Tennessee Corporation, which is legally registered to do business as Creative Story Project.
NOTE: A brief word about photos. Most of the photos shown on this site were taken by Joyce Vanderpool or submitted by others with permission for their use. If you have "silly" pictures that you might feel are appropriate to create simple stories, we would love to have you send them to us as a jpg email attachment. Pictures including animals or small children (permission required) are the best stimulants for the less cognitive mind. Thank you.
Intergenerational Store Power - kids and their elders
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     We love working with our senior citizens, but we also love kids. If you put the two together, it is even more fun! Our Intergenerational Story Power program pairs the young and the old in an innovative and exciting event.
     In working with groups of youth, we want to gently educate them about Alzheimer’s/dementia without scaring them. Fear accomplishes nothing. Knowledge creates confidence.
     We teach youth about age, the elderly, Alzheimer’s/dementia, and finally how to present our Story Power program. Upon completion of their class training, they are taken into a care facility to assist with our program.
     Youth are taught to greet people warmly and openly. They are encouraged to converse with the senior citizens to the best of their ability, making the resident feel important, respected, and most of all, loved. The youth are fully involved in the program, recognized and acknowledged as valued as they serve those with cognitive issues.
     After visiting the care facility, we get comments like “I loved that! Can I come back?” The answer is “Of course!” Most care facility Activity Directors know and value the effect of youth upon their residents. They want them to come back, as do the residents.
     And as a plus, often this program is used to fulfill Community Service requirements – and in a way that is fun and productive.
      It doesn't get much better than that! Let us know if we can be of help implementing this program.
Take three minutes to see what we do with Alzheimer's patients. Click on the icon in the lower right corner of the video screen to enlarge the view.