Reviews

"James Dowling's important goal in Keeping Busy is to provide hands-on information for truly therapeutic activities for persons with dementia. He has succeeded brilliantly and made a substantial contribution to the field. Dowling describes a series of activities designed to reduce problem behaviors and give meaning to life. They do not require expensive gadgets, elaborate preparation, or special training. Here is a sound theory, genuine compassion for impaired people, and a wonderful sense of the joy of life."

"While little can be done for the disease of dementia itself, much can be done to help direct the quality of life of the persons with the disease, and Keeping Busy succeeds in providing ideas for improving the quality of life for the Alzheimer patient."

"Provides detailed information about programming activities and developing an atmosphere that is responsive to patients with dementia. Topics include exercise, horticulture, communication, pets, humor, social events, and music. Each description include the rationale for the activity and some of the trial and error involved in developing the activity. Colorful anecdotes enliven the text and illustrate both successes and limitations."

"A practical, compassionate book that offers a variety of activities for people with dementia that can help improve their quality of life... The books closes with an appendix of 'good catalogs' that offer resources for caregivers of people with cognitive impairments or dementia."