ABSTRACT OF FIRST STUDY PUBLISHED IN FINLAND ON THE TTAP METHOD

SEINÄJOKI UNIVERSITY OF APPLIED SCIENCES Abstract

Faculty: School of Health Care and Social Work
Degree programme: Degree in Elderly Care
Author/s: Laura Hanski and Kaisu Kohola
Title of thesis: “We are all artists” Experiment of Therapeutic Thematic Arts Pro-gramming at Hoivakoti Kissanpäivät
Supervisor(s): Sirkka-Liisa Palomäki, Kari Jokiranta
Year: 2009 Number of pages: 76 Number of appendices: 6
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Activities for the residents are often missing in retirement homes. The goal of this thesis was to try Therapeutic Thematic Arts Programming (TTAP Method) at Hoivakoti Kissan-päivät and observe how it affects the residents socially, emotionally, cogntively and physically. The TTAP method is based on goal-directed action, which is a creative program.

This present work is part of DEMKE-project, a goverment established iniciative whose aim is to develop quality of life programming for elderly patients diagnosed with dementia. Our priority was to establish creative activities as a part of nursing home`s weekly programming. Our function was to offer educational experiences based on the TTAP Method to elderly, staff and close relatives. Thesis actualized as co-operative development. TTAP Method Activity groups gathered five times. We used observation, interviews, memos and photographing. Research materials analysis to analyze the TTAP method`s effects.

Our theme was nature. When the activity group gathered, we listened to music, painted, made sculptures, tasted vegetables, smelled scents and exercised. TTAP method was found out to be sensible and it suited the nursing home well elderly and those diagnosed with some form of dementia. Creative program is significant for demented people, as it aides in quality of life issues often overlooked. It was found that the TTAP Method program was significant in activatating memories, positive conversations and stimulating mental personal images. At the same time it was demonstrated to activate brain functions and exercise those remaining cognitive skills.

One function was to not only establish program but to educate close relatives to participate in creative activities and even get family members to guide group moments. It was found that through the TTAP Method there was enhnaced creativity; between residents, staff and family members. It enhanced quality of life creating enthusiasm on the unit and willingness to use it.

Keywords: TTAP method, creative activity, senses, demented residents