Juggling work responsibilities and care giving responsibilities on a busy summer day, I missed an interstate exit while en route to a dental appointment. After correcting course, which created additional travel moments, I tuned in to an NPR interview and heard the voice of Dr. Whitehouse on this brilliant, sunny day – at just one of those moments which totally resonated.

The interview was about the recent publication of The Myth of Alzheimer’s. The conversation at that very moment was on “music and Alzheimer’s.” Music had been a daily staple at The Ranch since our early days, and, even at this point – 2009 – very little media attention was being given to its importance in relationship to Alzheimer’s. Having sung daily with Mother at the piano for over a decade – and having performed with her in three public performances, I knew that eventually I would want to contribute to the conversation about the important relationship between music and Alzheimer’s.

An under-utilized resource:  The wisdom of older people

Later that summer, I had the opportunity to meet with Dr. Whitehouse and Dr. George in Cleveland and to visit The Intergenerational School, founded by Dr. Peter Whitehouse and his wife, Dr. Catherine Whitehouse. The school is an award-winning, internationally-recognized public school “committed to enhancing lifelong cognitive vitality.”

A learning environment in which the contribution of older people is valued

Children age six to twelve learn in an environment which includes older adults, some of whom are persons with memory challenges – while some have already been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Children read to elders, interact with elders, and experience a culturally rich learning celebration – full of diversity – in which the contribution of older people is valued.

This model school demonstrates important lessons for American culture. The quality of life for both adults and children is enhanced in an environment which promotes interactions valuable for both groups. Follow this link.

About the book: The Myth of Alzheimer’s

The authors are among pioneers, change agents, and influencers leading and supporting a growing international community devoted to humanizing the way we think about and respond to brain aging.

The audience for this carefully researched book includes everyone from caregivers and families to the medical community and policy makers. It covers a full range of topics which have helped to illuminate and inspire a far better-informed response to this diagnosis going forward.

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Website:  http://tisonline.org/   

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/themythofalzheimers/

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Author: Susan Troyer