Task 5b
Codes of conduct
After researching many codes of conduct and ethical issues within my chosen topic of entertainment within care and residential homes, I came across many acts and legislations which were applicable to this. I would not say necessarily say they differed from my initial thoughts in 5a, but expanded my knowledge, so I have a solid understanding of what ethical measures I need to take when carrying out my inquiry.
Data protection is upmost important and although I had a rough idea of what it entailed before, I now know exactly what is required and how it would affect my inquiry.
1. The Data Protection Act
The Data Protection Act controls how your personal information is used by organisations, businesses or the government.
Everyone responsible for using data has to follow strict rules called ‘data protection principles’. They must make sure the information is:
used fairly and lawfully
used for limited, specifically stated purposes
used in a way that is adequate, relevant and not excessive
accurate
kept for no longer than is absolutely necessary
handled according to people’s data protection rights
kept safe and secure
not transferred outside the European Economic Area without adequate protection
(Taken from the Data Protection Act- https://www.gov.uk/data-protection/the-data-protection-act)
When interviewing or observing people, I will endeavour all personal data will be kept confidential, with the information I gather used only for the inquiry. I will also make certain no personal or uncomfortable questions are asked that may make the party uncomfortable or feel exploited. This is particularly important as I will be talking about illnesses such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, I have to be really sensitive about details regarding health that should be kept private.
More specifically I looked on the Alzheimer's Europe website which raised a few ethical points I felt were relevant to my work; 'Many people who are in the early stages of dementia have the capacity to consent to participation in research. However, it is important that researchers understand that people with dementia may have certain difficulties with comprehension, attention span, memory and communication. For this reason, researchers need to take extra care to ensure that the information they have given has been understood and to respect each person’s pace.' (Alzheimer-Europe.org Consent in case of incapacity or reduced capacity to consent) As this may sometimes be the case with my interviews, I must be completely respectful, understanding people work at different paces and also I must certify, if working with a resident, that a carer is present throughout any interview.
This leads on to 'Substitute decision-making' regarding people who cannot consent because of dementia. It is vital 'the research entails only minimal risk and minimal burden for the individuals concerned'(Alzheimer-Europe.org substitute decision making). I would never wish to cause burden on anyone, especially vulnerable people so I have to make everything as easy and enjoyable as possible.
When conducting any research or interviews it is 'the researchers’ responsibility to ensure that potential participants fully understand what is involved as this is the basis for informed consent. Once the study is underway, the researchers may acquire additional information which they need to share with participants.' (Alzheimer-Europe.org The general Procedure). Everything should be clearly laid out to make it easily understood for anyone involved with no hidden agendas or uncertainties.
The last website I looked at was The British Psychological Society (www.bps.org.uk/sites/defaults/files/documents/codes_of_human_research.pdf)
On the whole they covered similar issues to Alzheimer Europe ensuring you respect the integrity of the people involved with your research knowing the 'knowledge must be generated and used for beneficial purposes' (2.3 Social Responsibility).
With regards to respect and dignity they have a great value statement I think is good for my work-
'2.1 Respect for the autonomy and dignity of persons
Value statement: ‘Psychologists value the dignity and worth of all persons equally, with sensitivity to the dynamics of perceived authority or influence over others and with particular regard to people’s rights including those of privacy and self-determination’ (Code of Ethics and Conduct, 2009, p.10).'
I feel this is a value statement I have to adopt myself when carrying out my inquiry, as I wish to maintain all respect not only for the people involved but for myself and my business as an entertainer, knowing I am researching for beneficial purposes, whilst helping others and making them feel influenced determined for a better cause.
Overall I hold all these ethical values anyway throughout my professional and personal life, so I will not find anything unusual or uncomfortable to adopt.
If anyone knows of any other websites that are useful for ethical values, please comment below as any feedback is extremely helpful.
Saturday 26 March 2016
Tuesday 22 March 2016
Task 5a
Task 5a
Possible ethics I need to consider in my inquiry.
As I am intending to inquire about arts within care and residential homes, I will be faced with many ethical concerns and problems, I will have to ensure they are looked into properly and dealt with accordingly. This first blog are my initial thoughts before reading through all the ethical acts.
- Because I am working with elderly and/or disabled people, I must ensure I always refer to each person or group of people with the correct terms. Reader 5, Case Study 5, Taken from Walliman, N. (2009) “Honesty & Research Ethics” (Chapter 8). in Your Research Project. 2nd ed. London: Sage p. 343, is a great example of how important it is to address people properly. Rather than using correct and appropriate language to address someone such as 'elderly,' he simply addresses them as 'the old dears', an extremely unprofessional term, that could potentially cause offence. I will ensure every address or reference will be written with up most politeness.
- Every person, whether it be a carer,resident, family member or coworker, must be protected under the Data Protection act. I must certify no personal details are revealed and the policies of the care home are kept private should they wish so. This is also important for myself and my business, as I feel discretion and privacy are essential if I wish to keep my clients happy, rather than openly writing about them and their management.
- Also, particularly as I am working with vulnerable people, my questions must be chosen carefully. It is crucial I do not make anyone feel uncomfortable with questions that are too personal or difficult to answer. Every person interviewed must be aware they can retract at any time, if they feel the investigation is not suitable for them.
These were my initial thoughts, without any detailed research. My following blog will contain facts from data protection, human rights etc. However I would love to hear peoples thoughts on this and if any other issues you feel may crop up. All feedback is greatly appreciated.
Possible ethics I need to consider in my inquiry.
As I am intending to inquire about arts within care and residential homes, I will be faced with many ethical concerns and problems, I will have to ensure they are looked into properly and dealt with accordingly. This first blog are my initial thoughts before reading through all the ethical acts.
- Because I am working with elderly and/or disabled people, I must ensure I always refer to each person or group of people with the correct terms. Reader 5, Case Study 5, Taken from Walliman, N. (2009) “Honesty & Research Ethics” (Chapter 8). in Your Research Project. 2nd ed. London: Sage p. 343, is a great example of how important it is to address people properly. Rather than using correct and appropriate language to address someone such as 'elderly,' he simply addresses them as 'the old dears', an extremely unprofessional term, that could potentially cause offence. I will ensure every address or reference will be written with up most politeness.
- Every person, whether it be a carer,resident, family member or coworker, must be protected under the Data Protection act. I must certify no personal details are revealed and the policies of the care home are kept private should they wish so. This is also important for myself and my business, as I feel discretion and privacy are essential if I wish to keep my clients happy, rather than openly writing about them and their management.
- Also, particularly as I am working with vulnerable people, my questions must be chosen carefully. It is crucial I do not make anyone feel uncomfortable with questions that are too personal or difficult to answer. Every person interviewed must be aware they can retract at any time, if they feel the investigation is not suitable for them.
These were my initial thoughts, without any detailed research. My following blog will contain facts from data protection, human rights etc. However I would love to hear peoples thoughts on this and if any other issues you feel may crop up. All feedback is greatly appreciated.
Friday 11 March 2016
Arts in Health: A review of the medical literature
Dr Rosalia Lelchuk Stancoff (2004)
2.4 The effects of the arts in Mental Health- pages 24- 3
This was a report done by the Arts Council, England, reviewing medical literature in order to create a national arts and health strategy to improve the work within the health care services. Dr Staricoff has taken many theories and sections of literature in order to make a 'significant contribution to strengthening the evidence base and to improving our understanding of the impact of the arts on health.'(Hewitt,pg 2).
I chose this report to review as, although many people can see the positive effects of arts within healthcare, without grounding evidence, it will lack the stability to grow and develop further. The chapter I decided to focus on was '2.4 The effects of Arts in Mental Health' as it contained many points and arguments that relate directly to my work and help my expand my knowledge within this field.
How would we describe complete health? The World Health organisation (1948) uses the term 'equilibrium' stating it involves a 'physical, mental and social well being and not merely the absence of disease'. I feel this is something that is often overlooked as we simply concentrate on a physical state of health, particularly within a care setting e.g a hospital, rehabilitation or care home. Numbers of patients are sometimes quite high with fewer staff able to focus on more social well being activities, only having time to physically take care of them. This is where outside organisations are needed with the arts playing 'a pivotal role in achieving this equilibrium' (Jamison 1994). Throughout my experience of working in care homes as an entertainer, I have found that the more art and creative activities included within a weekly program, generally, the better the morale overall within the residents. A study found that the arts within a care setting, in this instance Alzheimer's patients, increased 'self esteem' and they had a 'more positive attitude towards their family and staff',(Smith 1992). Therefore it is not only beneficial for the patients themselves, but for the families who are directly effected by a loved one having the disease, and creating a more positive working environment for the staff, thus having a knock on effect overall within the care home.
'The introduction of the arts into mental health care helps the patient find new ways of self-expression and act as a vehicle for establishing communication with others' (Killick, 1999a, Killick 1999b, Alan 2000). I am particularly interested in this, as I go into a Residential unit that cares for young adults with severe Autism, entertaining them with music and dance performances. On a day to day basis communication and self expression can be difficult for those with Autism, yet the effects the performances have on the residents is so uplifting and positive to see. As they feel they are in a safe and controlled environment, they really let go, singing and dancing along the music and communicate with the carers and other residents. Speaking to the carers afterwards they comment on how much they get out of the performance sessions as the positive lift seems to last, not only for the duration of the show but for the rest of the day. It is clear to see just how much the arts can, in many instances change the outlook and general well being of a person.
However 'it is important to note that the introduction of creative arts, such as dance and drama, music, visual arts and creative writing in mental health could have potential risk factors' (pg 25). I have encountered a few occasions, where it has been too demanding for the residents and they have become unhappy or agitated. One example was within a home specialising in care for adults with learning difficulties and disabilities. Once the music began, they became extremely excitable, which then lead to a state of agitation the onto aggression. The performance was simply too much for them to cope with, so was not actually suitable for them. Whilst on the whole these activities are undeniable effective, it is vital we maintain 'an awareness of the potential dangers of these activities.'(Dobson, 2000; Mot tram, 2003).
Although my work with healthcare settings, is a pre set show that is for entertainment purposes, it often becomes very interactive with some residents getting up and having a dance within the performance. Hokkanen (2003) claims that ' social dancing gives patients another way of communicating, supports spontaneous activity and increases physical movements'. I find getting the residents up to dance is mostly down to the activities co ordinator, as they will lead them up and dance with them, encouraging and even helping those who are less able. I have found that the more involved the co ordinator becomes within the performance, the greater the experience the residents have. I think this is because it 'creates a supportive environment and helps the patient achieve a state of independence (Palo-Bengtsson 1998; Palo Bengtsson 2000). The encouragement of the activities co ordinator gives the residents the confidence to the participate in singing and dancing, enabling the most from the performance.
The section on 'Music intervention in Mental health' backs up many articles I have read before suggesting just how important music therapy is, yet so much more research is needed, which requires much more funding. One particular area which needs to be developed is the use of 'reminiscence therapy'- using music to help patients recall events of their life. Often after a show, particularly my 1940's World War 2, residents will chat to me about where they were at that time, going into great detail, describing all senses and sounds, and how the songs brought back those memories for them. Not only does it help them with memory but also encourages them to communicate with others by sharing those memories. 'Previous studies have indicated that music also helps Alzheimer's patients to maximise their social functions'(Glyn 1992, Sanmandham 1995), therefore if linked with reminiscence therapy it captures to aspects that will help the residents. Could this be because when they are more relaxed they are able to free their mind? Jennings (2002) states that 'it has been recently confirmed that music significantly reduces physical agitation' which makes me question whether this relaxation and reduction of agitation is the trigger for all the other things.
This Chapter was extremely helpful to me as it backs up so many ideas I have been looking through and create a solid grounding for all my other research. I feel the topics relate so well with my professional practice so I can continue to work and learn, with a greater understanding.
2.4 The effects of the arts in Mental Health- pages 24- 3
This was a report done by the Arts Council, England, reviewing medical literature in order to create a national arts and health strategy to improve the work within the health care services. Dr Staricoff has taken many theories and sections of literature in order to make a 'significant contribution to strengthening the evidence base and to improving our understanding of the impact of the arts on health.'(Hewitt,pg 2).
I chose this report to review as, although many people can see the positive effects of arts within healthcare, without grounding evidence, it will lack the stability to grow and develop further. The chapter I decided to focus on was '2.4 The effects of Arts in Mental Health' as it contained many points and arguments that relate directly to my work and help my expand my knowledge within this field.
How would we describe complete health? The World Health organisation (1948) uses the term 'equilibrium' stating it involves a 'physical, mental and social well being and not merely the absence of disease'. I feel this is something that is often overlooked as we simply concentrate on a physical state of health, particularly within a care setting e.g a hospital, rehabilitation or care home. Numbers of patients are sometimes quite high with fewer staff able to focus on more social well being activities, only having time to physically take care of them. This is where outside organisations are needed with the arts playing 'a pivotal role in achieving this equilibrium' (Jamison 1994). Throughout my experience of working in care homes as an entertainer, I have found that the more art and creative activities included within a weekly program, generally, the better the morale overall within the residents. A study found that the arts within a care setting, in this instance Alzheimer's patients, increased 'self esteem' and they had a 'more positive attitude towards their family and staff',(Smith 1992). Therefore it is not only beneficial for the patients themselves, but for the families who are directly effected by a loved one having the disease, and creating a more positive working environment for the staff, thus having a knock on effect overall within the care home.
'The introduction of the arts into mental health care helps the patient find new ways of self-expression and act as a vehicle for establishing communication with others' (Killick, 1999a, Killick 1999b, Alan 2000). I am particularly interested in this, as I go into a Residential unit that cares for young adults with severe Autism, entertaining them with music and dance performances. On a day to day basis communication and self expression can be difficult for those with Autism, yet the effects the performances have on the residents is so uplifting and positive to see. As they feel they are in a safe and controlled environment, they really let go, singing and dancing along the music and communicate with the carers and other residents. Speaking to the carers afterwards they comment on how much they get out of the performance sessions as the positive lift seems to last, not only for the duration of the show but for the rest of the day. It is clear to see just how much the arts can, in many instances change the outlook and general well being of a person.
However 'it is important to note that the introduction of creative arts, such as dance and drama, music, visual arts and creative writing in mental health could have potential risk factors' (pg 25). I have encountered a few occasions, where it has been too demanding for the residents and they have become unhappy or agitated. One example was within a home specialising in care for adults with learning difficulties and disabilities. Once the music began, they became extremely excitable, which then lead to a state of agitation the onto aggression. The performance was simply too much for them to cope with, so was not actually suitable for them. Whilst on the whole these activities are undeniable effective, it is vital we maintain 'an awareness of the potential dangers of these activities.'(Dobson, 2000; Mot tram, 2003).
Although my work with healthcare settings, is a pre set show that is for entertainment purposes, it often becomes very interactive with some residents getting up and having a dance within the performance. Hokkanen (2003) claims that ' social dancing gives patients another way of communicating, supports spontaneous activity and increases physical movements'. I find getting the residents up to dance is mostly down to the activities co ordinator, as they will lead them up and dance with them, encouraging and even helping those who are less able. I have found that the more involved the co ordinator becomes within the performance, the greater the experience the residents have. I think this is because it 'creates a supportive environment and helps the patient achieve a state of independence (Palo-Bengtsson 1998; Palo Bengtsson 2000). The encouragement of the activities co ordinator gives the residents the confidence to the participate in singing and dancing, enabling the most from the performance.
The section on 'Music intervention in Mental health' backs up many articles I have read before suggesting just how important music therapy is, yet so much more research is needed, which requires much more funding. One particular area which needs to be developed is the use of 'reminiscence therapy'- using music to help patients recall events of their life. Often after a show, particularly my 1940's World War 2, residents will chat to me about where they were at that time, going into great detail, describing all senses and sounds, and how the songs brought back those memories for them. Not only does it help them with memory but also encourages them to communicate with others by sharing those memories. 'Previous studies have indicated that music also helps Alzheimer's patients to maximise their social functions'(Glyn 1992, Sanmandham 1995), therefore if linked with reminiscence therapy it captures to aspects that will help the residents. Could this be because when they are more relaxed they are able to free their mind? Jennings (2002) states that 'it has been recently confirmed that music significantly reduces physical agitation' which makes me question whether this relaxation and reduction of agitation is the trigger for all the other things.
This Chapter was extremely helpful to me as it backs up so many ideas I have been looking through and create a solid grounding for all my other research. I feel the topics relate so well with my professional practice so I can continue to work and learn, with a greater understanding.
Wednesday 9 March 2016
Literature Review- Parkinsonsdance.blogspot.com
Parkinson's patients: Yes we can Dance
Whilst researching possible articles and theorists relating to dance and Parkinson's disease, I came across Bob Dawson's blog. He is a Parkinson's patient who blogs, in detail, about how dance helps him and other patients, along with researching different theories and journals, giving his own opinions. I found this even more beneficial than if I would have just found the articles alone as I can see and understand first hand how actual patients feel about it and relate the the theories. He says 'if you have Parkinson's, it is my personal, non- scientific opinion that you should find music that you get off on, play it LOUD, and start to move to music. EVERYDAY'. What I found most striking though, was his statement: 'Dance to bother the scientists/ Dance to raise a question'. This was what drew me in to read more and explore his blog further.
Dawson has had the courage to questions scientist Dr Daniel J.Levitin who stated 'Many mental illnesses are now known to undermine the ability to dance or perform rhythmically- Schizophrenia and Parkinson's to name just two.' (page 253 of “This is Your Brain on Music” by Dr. Daniel J. Levitin, neurologist at McGill University, published by Penguin, September 2007). When this award winning scientist was challenged by Dawson, he simply said he should not 'pit against the judgement of experts'. Yet Dawson goes on to present two case studies, (one himself, one another woman), to support that in fact dance is extremely beneficial to help mobilise those with Parkinson's.
He provides this video, showing no mobility and a real struggle to walk yet look what happens once the music begins.
It raised so many questions for me:
- what is it in the brain that stops us from walking, yet allows us to move to music?
- is it purely neurological or are there some emotional connections, which pushes o restrict us?
- how can I apply my skills as a dancer to help those with Parkinson's?
- what funding is put into further research of dance with Parkinson's
The second study on Dr Hu's research into the disease, helped begin to answer these some of these questions:
A single study at the University of Calgary
Striking a chord
By Anthony A. Davis
It’s a short length of masking tape stuck on a floor, but for some reason Sheila McHutchison can’t step over it. She freezes in her tracks, as if the tape were as impassable as a penitentiary wall.
Parkinson’s disease can do strange things to people. The most common symptoms of this incurable brain disease are tremors, usually beginning in one arm or hand, muscular rigidity and slowness of movement. But in some cases – Sheila is one – the disease also causes patients to freeze up at certain sights, making a simple task like walking impossible. For some, the visual stimulus might be the line between a carpet and hardwood flooring or a crack in a sidewalk. In Sheila’s case, it’s the tape.
But then someone puts on Sheila’s favourite song, ABBA’s “Dancing Queen,” and she has a pas-de-deux with her husband, John. A moment later, facing that little stretch of tape, she easily walks across it. Music seems to melt Parkinson’s freezing effect.
Sadly, three or four minutes after the music subsides, Sheila’s hands again begin to tremble and her upper body wobbles. She is led again to the masking tape and, once again, freezes like a statue when she tries to step over it.
That tape was stuck there by Dr. Bin Hu, head of a national Parkinson’s research project centred in Calgary. Dr. Hu and his collaborators are trying to find out why music, at least temporarily, melts the paralyzing effects of Parkinson’s in some patients….
…Sheila emphasizes that Parkinson’s has not taken over her life. “I have Parkinson’s, but Parkinson’s doesn’t have me,” she says. And when the music plays, she feels like her old self. . .
… Dr. Hu explains that scientists have made great strides in studying how the brain reacts to music. For example, Dr. Robert Zatoore’s group at McGill University has found pleasant music activates almost the same brain regions as those that mediate feelings of reward and pleasure. “What is amazing is that these reward pathways also exist in rats,” Dr. Hu says. Recently, Dr. Hu’s laboratory and researchers in Japan have discovered so-called “cue” neurons, the brain cells that apparently only respond to rewarding auditory tunes but not neutral sounds. When researchers gave rats a sweet drink or other pleasurable reward after playing a certain kind of beep – the rodent’s version of a favourite tune – they discovered that cue cells “fired like crazy” whenever the beep was sounded again. In the meantime, the rats moved 30 to 50 per cent faster than without the “music.”
Dr. Hu believes that cue cells are spared from Parkinson’s disease. When these cells respond to music (and it can’t be any music, explains Dr. Hu, “it must be connected to a person’s feelings, connected to recollections of something enjoyable”), they release chemicals that help Parkinson’s patients temporarily get back their control of movements.
Last December, Dr. Hu and his colleagues began studying Parkinson’s patients who exhibited positive musical responses. His team hopes to eventually study about 30 people, and… Dr. Hu hopes to conduct some of their studies in the homes of patients. … Dr. Hu’s team will capture each step of a patient’s movement using a wireless motion detector and high-speed video recording, a computer system specially developed by Ed Block, chief engineer in the group.
“One of our goals is to make the music effect last longer,” explains Dr. Hu. Another is to figure out how we can help train more Parkinson’s patients to use music as an alternative way of treatment. Both of these goals will greatly benefit from our basic research on the brain pathways and chemicals related to the music effect. Extrapolating from those discoveries, the team will try to develop new and more effective treatments for the illness.
When Dr. Hu’s research project was officially announced in Calgary, country-music star Paul Brandt was on hand to explain how Parkinson’s not only robs individuals of control over their bodies, but also takes an immense toll on sufferers’ families. Brandt’s father-in-law, Bernie Peterson, is in the late stages of Parkinson’s.
Brandt, a former registered nurse at the Alberta Children’s Hospital before breaking out into country music, said he felt a “bit cheated” because of Parkinson’s. Shortly after he met his future wife, Elizabeth, her father, Bernie, had a heart attack in 1994. As his arm hung down from a hospital gurney, Bernie noticed an odd trembling in his fingers. “He didn’t know it then,” recounts Brandt, “but Parkinson’s disease had taken a hold of him and his plans and his wife and his family. And I guess, in a way, it kind of took over me, too. You see, I never really got to meet Bernie, the father-in-law that could have taught me how to finally fix my truck on my own, or remodel an old classic or build a deck on my house. He couldn’t do these things anymore by the time I met him.”
Bernie, a once vigorous man who had flown the first fighter-jets used in the United States Air Force…, today can’t sit alone in a chair. Tremors rock him so badly that, unless his wife, Freda, is there to repeatedly prop him up, he eventually slides helplessly out of most chairs. “You learn to suffer in a kind and forgiving nature,” says Bernie of how he copes with Parkinson’s. “There’s no other way to do it.”
Bernie’s singing son-in-law shook his head when he first heard about Dr. Hu’s project. “I’ve always been skeptical of music therapy honestly,” admits Brandt. “But when I saw this video (of Sheila) suddenly being able to move because of music, and heard the doctors talking about it, honestly my first response was that maybe they would try and use my music and it would actually make patients worse.”
But he realizes now the research is no joke. “It’s almost dreamlike that music could be used to be a treatment for a disease like Parkinson’s.” Sure, it’s always been good for healing an aching heart, says Brandt, “but who knew it could be used for an aching mind.”
Anthony A. Davis is a Calgary writer. First published in Apple Magazine
I felt this needed to be included in this review, so you could see just how science and emotional connections are combined to create more effective studies. Working in the social and care sector, even through exercise and entertainment, we must never get bogged down by the science, but concentrate on the people.How their lives are effected. I will continue to follow Dawson's blog and his other posts about dance and Parkinson's. Using this alongside scientific and formal documents and articles, I feel I can really create the right balance in my research to enable me to fully understand the importance of arts within care homes and the social sector.
Tuesday 8 March 2016
Task 4d
Literature Review
The Baring Foundation- Creative Care Homes
This was one of the first articles I really studied for this Module, and found it was full of useful ideas, case studies and reports that would help my research into The Arts within care homes. It has also provided me with many other reports and articles on this subject matter. As I work in entertainment within care homes, I feel this will really help develop my skills in this area and give me a clearer understanding of just how important this is within social care.
The authors David Cutler, Des Kelly and Slyvie Silver claim their purpose of the article was to 'celebrate existing good practice in the use of the arts with and for older people in residential care and to inspire more and better work'.(foreword p.1) I feel it is imperative the good work is celebrated as the arts are so often overlooked, particularly within the social sector, so spreading positive feedback can help potentially create more interest and therefore more need for funding. As artist Annie Abers mentions 'Sometimes we can be given the impression that the arts are only for people who belong to a rather exclusive club,' (p.4) yet this report demonstrates how they can be easily accessed in a variety of ways and have marvellous benefits for the recipients.
Taking part (p.4,5)
This section provided me with some interesting insights and further reading for other articles I will review separately. They all state how the arts benefit people within care and the different reasons for having activities in place.
- 'There is increasing recognition of the benefits for everyone of having the chance to take part more actively in the arts and the impact of participation on our physical and mental health and well-being' (Hayes, J & Povey, S, (2010) The Creative Arts in Dementia Care: practical person-centred approaches and ideas, Jessica Kingsley, London)
- 'Many activities, though not all, take place in groups and bring with them social interaction and a sense of inclusion, countering a common aspect of older age – loneliness, isolation and depression'
'Some arts activities can allow us to express our often hidden identities and in so doing, to challenge what others assume about us'. (Taylor, M, Self-identity and the arts education of disabled young people, (2006) Disability and Society, (20), 7, 763-778).
I am particularly interested in Taylor's idea of allowing people to express hidden identities. I often go to perform in care homes and find residents happily singing and dancing throughout the show, only to be then told by a career, they are usually very reserved and are hard to communicate with. How does music and art connect with people to have this effect?
One of the case studies in this article, helps to answer this question, as it focuses on 'Singing for Brain sessions'; a technique run by the Alzheimer's society. (P.11)
The St Monica trust (www.stmomicatrust.org.uk) is a specialist dementia service in Bristol and North Somerset, and uses this technique throughout its care homes.
They have many aims and targets for these sessions, but these few points really stood out to me and my practice.
- 'to improve and maintain the neurological pathways through deeper breathing and gentle movement;(there is ongoing research into the relationship between singing and the area of the brain concerned with speech; there are many anecdotal reports that during singing sessions people with dementia demonstrate improved lucidity and sociability;)'
- 'to lift/prevent depression through the use of elements which surprise, reassure, support, inspire and mediate, reframing a negative life viewpoint into a positive one;'
- 'to express emotions by singing songs that evoke many types of emotion or feelings that might be triggered by them;'
It has inspired me to look deeper into the actual science behind the connection between singing and speech and the neurological pathways. Also the psychological theories relating music with depression and how it can help.
The study also mentions using 'well designed song folders to enable residents to see a song on a single page. However I disagree with this being an effective tool, as I have tried this myself and was overall unsuccessful. During my first set of Christmas singalong shows in care and residential homes, I used a large font, clear Carol sheet for the residents to use and read from. I found, in general, they were simply not used and often just discarded on the floor. Residents were happy to sing along with words they already knew and enjoy parts they didn't. I would be interested to interview a few other entertainers and round who do this to see what their feedback is.
They use props and instruments including 'scarves bubbles and props to add a dimension of storytelling and fun'. This I completely agree with as I always feel it becomes so much more interactive and keeps the residents engaged in another way, so I tend to include props in all my shows to add to the theme of the music.
The Current place of Arts in NCF Care Homes. (P.6)
A review in August 2011 of the NCF (not for profit care homes in England) States that 82.1% include art activities within their care services. These included:
- 'the singing circle' for people with dementia
- theatre, dance and music performance
- activities linked to events such as Burns Night, Christmas or themed days.
My work is directly linked to all these as I include singalong sections in my theatre and music performances, linking them in with festivals and events like Christmas and Easter. I would like to investigate first hand, through interviews and feedback, just how much of an impact these activities have on a daily basis to the residents and their well being.
'It is interesting to note that almost every organisation recorded ‘reminiscence-type’ activities and the majority have regular ‘music and movement’ sessions (in some cases daily) which can improve physical fitness levels, general health and well-being and impart ‘feel-good’ benefits for all involved.' (P.6)
Other Case Studies
The article features many other case studies, conducted by many organisations set up around the country, all providing something different for the clientele so I turn having different effects and benefits.
- The Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution (www.rmbi.org.uk) use 'Sonas therapeutic communication' and 'circle dance in association with Dementia UK. They have 'a variety of entertainers come into the RMBI homes to hold sessions'.
- Ladder to the Moon (www.laddertothemoon.co.uk) focus more upon training staff, using creative and drama techniques to change attitudes and create 'active support between staff' helping them develop a better living environment for the residents, 'shifting the culture of care away from ‘getting tasks done’ to ‘supporting individuals to have the best possible quality of life’.'
- Oxford concert (www.oxfordconcertparty.com) use musical sessions, with aims of 'opening up musical experiences for prisoners, refugees and asylum seekers, people with mental health needs, children and young people in educational settings as well as older people.' They use music, song, dance and poetry which they have said ' brought the participants together and created a very supportive and fun atmosphere, generating visible responses from everyone'. The organisation also uses musical instruments from various cultures to gain 'another dimension of sensory experience from being able to hear and make sound from these musical instruments.'
Each of these studies, I will look into further detail as my course progresses, and will look into contacting some of these organisations to get some feedback about their services.
In conclusion, I found this article extremely interesting, opening up many other doors of research that I can get stuck into throughout this module. What I found really interesting was the way in which arts not only helps the residents directly, but training staff with art techniques to help them become more effective carers. This is something completely new to me and I lol forward into researching this further. I would also like to develop a greater understanding of the brain activity that happens when people with dementia engage in art related activities.
If you have any feedback about any of the subjects raised in this blog I would love to hear peoples ideas and opinions.
The Baring Foundation- Creative Care Homes
This was one of the first articles I really studied for this Module, and found it was full of useful ideas, case studies and reports that would help my research into The Arts within care homes. It has also provided me with many other reports and articles on this subject matter. As I work in entertainment within care homes, I feel this will really help develop my skills in this area and give me a clearer understanding of just how important this is within social care.
The authors David Cutler, Des Kelly and Slyvie Silver claim their purpose of the article was to 'celebrate existing good practice in the use of the arts with and for older people in residential care and to inspire more and better work'.(foreword p.1) I feel it is imperative the good work is celebrated as the arts are so often overlooked, particularly within the social sector, so spreading positive feedback can help potentially create more interest and therefore more need for funding. As artist Annie Abers mentions 'Sometimes we can be given the impression that the arts are only for people who belong to a rather exclusive club,' (p.4) yet this report demonstrates how they can be easily accessed in a variety of ways and have marvellous benefits for the recipients.
Taking part (p.4,5)
This section provided me with some interesting insights and further reading for other articles I will review separately. They all state how the arts benefit people within care and the different reasons for having activities in place.
- 'There is increasing recognition of the benefits for everyone of having the chance to take part more actively in the arts and the impact of participation on our physical and mental health and well-being' (Hayes, J & Povey, S, (2010) The Creative Arts in Dementia Care: practical person-centred approaches and ideas, Jessica Kingsley, London)
- 'Many activities, though not all, take place in groups and bring with them social interaction and a sense of inclusion, countering a common aspect of older age – loneliness, isolation and depression'
'Some arts activities can allow us to express our often hidden identities and in so doing, to challenge what others assume about us'. (Taylor, M, Self-identity and the arts education of disabled young people, (2006) Disability and Society, (20), 7, 763-778).
I am particularly interested in Taylor's idea of allowing people to express hidden identities. I often go to perform in care homes and find residents happily singing and dancing throughout the show, only to be then told by a career, they are usually very reserved and are hard to communicate with. How does music and art connect with people to have this effect?
One of the case studies in this article, helps to answer this question, as it focuses on 'Singing for Brain sessions'; a technique run by the Alzheimer's society. (P.11)
The St Monica trust (www.stmomicatrust.org.uk) is a specialist dementia service in Bristol and North Somerset, and uses this technique throughout its care homes.
They have many aims and targets for these sessions, but these few points really stood out to me and my practice.
- 'to improve and maintain the neurological pathways through deeper breathing and gentle movement;(there is ongoing research into the relationship between singing and the area of the brain concerned with speech; there are many anecdotal reports that during singing sessions people with dementia demonstrate improved lucidity and sociability;)'
- 'to lift/prevent depression through the use of elements which surprise, reassure, support, inspire and mediate, reframing a negative life viewpoint into a positive one;'
- 'to express emotions by singing songs that evoke many types of emotion or feelings that might be triggered by them;'
It has inspired me to look deeper into the actual science behind the connection between singing and speech and the neurological pathways. Also the psychological theories relating music with depression and how it can help.
The study also mentions using 'well designed song folders to enable residents to see a song on a single page. However I disagree with this being an effective tool, as I have tried this myself and was overall unsuccessful. During my first set of Christmas singalong shows in care and residential homes, I used a large font, clear Carol sheet for the residents to use and read from. I found, in general, they were simply not used and often just discarded on the floor. Residents were happy to sing along with words they already knew and enjoy parts they didn't. I would be interested to interview a few other entertainers and round who do this to see what their feedback is.
They use props and instruments including 'scarves bubbles and props to add a dimension of storytelling and fun'. This I completely agree with as I always feel it becomes so much more interactive and keeps the residents engaged in another way, so I tend to include props in all my shows to add to the theme of the music.
The Current place of Arts in NCF Care Homes. (P.6)
A review in August 2011 of the NCF (not for profit care homes in England) States that 82.1% include art activities within their care services. These included:
- 'the singing circle' for people with dementia
- theatre, dance and music performance
- activities linked to events such as Burns Night, Christmas or themed days.
My work is directly linked to all these as I include singalong sections in my theatre and music performances, linking them in with festivals and events like Christmas and Easter. I would like to investigate first hand, through interviews and feedback, just how much of an impact these activities have on a daily basis to the residents and their well being.
'It is interesting to note that almost every organisation recorded ‘reminiscence-type’ activities and the majority have regular ‘music and movement’ sessions (in some cases daily) which can improve physical fitness levels, general health and well-being and impart ‘feel-good’ benefits for all involved.' (P.6)
Other Case Studies
The article features many other case studies, conducted by many organisations set up around the country, all providing something different for the clientele so I turn having different effects and benefits.
- The Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution (www.rmbi.org.uk) use 'Sonas therapeutic communication' and 'circle dance in association with Dementia UK. They have 'a variety of entertainers come into the RMBI homes to hold sessions'.
- Ladder to the Moon (www.laddertothemoon.co.uk) focus more upon training staff, using creative and drama techniques to change attitudes and create 'active support between staff' helping them develop a better living environment for the residents, 'shifting the culture of care away from ‘getting tasks done’ to ‘supporting individuals to have the best possible quality of life’.'
- Oxford concert (www.oxfordconcertparty.com) use musical sessions, with aims of 'opening up musical experiences for prisoners, refugees and asylum seekers, people with mental health needs, children and young people in educational settings as well as older people.' They use music, song, dance and poetry which they have said ' brought the participants together and created a very supportive and fun atmosphere, generating visible responses from everyone'. The organisation also uses musical instruments from various cultures to gain 'another dimension of sensory experience from being able to hear and make sound from these musical instruments.'
Each of these studies, I will look into further detail as my course progresses, and will look into contacting some of these organisations to get some feedback about their services.
In conclusion, I found this article extremely interesting, opening up many other doors of research that I can get stuck into throughout this module. What I found really interesting was the way in which arts not only helps the residents directly, but training staff with art techniques to help them become more effective carers. This is something completely new to me and I lol forward into researching this further. I would also like to develop a greater understanding of the brain activity that happens when people with dementia engage in art related activities.
If you have any feedback about any of the subjects raised in this blog I would love to hear peoples ideas and opinions.
Tuesday 1 March 2016
Task 4A- continued
As I continue to research and look into my profession, I have added some more inquiry questions I feel I could really get stuck into as they interest me on many levels and feel there is a lot to be looked at.
1. As I work in providing entertainment in care homes, I am interested in music therapy. How is music and dance a form of therapy, particularly for people with Alzheimer's or dementia?
2. I also work as a freelance teacher, working with children of all ages. How is performing arts a good choice for children, regardless as to whether they wish to take it up as a career? What positive effects does it have and how does it set them up for adult life?
3. Can choreography and music be a platform to communicate current affairs and events in an entertaining way? As the news can always be quite negative, people (especially younger people) can avoid watching it or reading about it. How can performance be used to get the news across to others?
Any feedback would be greatly appreciated :-)
1. As I work in providing entertainment in care homes, I am interested in music therapy. How is music and dance a form of therapy, particularly for people with Alzheimer's or dementia?
2. I also work as a freelance teacher, working with children of all ages. How is performing arts a good choice for children, regardless as to whether they wish to take it up as a career? What positive effects does it have and how does it set them up for adult life?
3. Can choreography and music be a platform to communicate current affairs and events in an entertaining way? As the news can always be quite negative, people (especially younger people) can avoid watching it or reading about it. How can performance be used to get the news across to others?
Any feedback would be greatly appreciated :-)
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